Do you have a toothache? A swollen jaw? You could have an infected tooth that requires root canal therapy. Dr. Robert Neighbors and Dr. Brian Herod skillfully help patients in need of this procedure, offering comfortable treatments at their Midlothian, VA office.
Do not wait if you think you may have a tooth infection or possible abscess. Contact our office right away to become a patient.
Know the Signs of an Infected Tooth
When a tooth nerve is affected by decay or infection, it usually sends signals. However, there are times when an infected tooth offers no signs of trouble, which is why keeping up with routine six-month dental check-ups and digital x-rays is essential.
Some of the strongest indicators of a tooth potentially in need of root canal therapy include:
- Sudden, severe pain in and around a tooth. The pain may spread quickly to the whole mouth.
- A pimple-like lesion on the gums. This is also called an abscess.
- Extreme tooth sensitivity to heat, cold, and sweet foods.
- Swelling or tenderness of the mouth.
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should call a dentist. The longer you wait, the greater the chances that you may lose your tooth to infection or decay.
What Happens During Root Canal Therapy?
During a root canal therapy, you will be appropriately numbed so you feel nothing during the procedure. The dentist will use special tools to carefully remove any diseased tooth pulp and nerves. Next, he will sanitize the inside of the tooth. Finally, he will fill the empty space with special medication to prevent recontamination.
Although you may have heard that root canal therapy is painful, the only discomfort most patients feel is due to symptoms before the procedure. After root canal therapy, some tenderness, sensitivity, and swelling is normal, but will go away with proper at-home care per the dentist’s guidelines.
Why Tooth Extraction Is Not an Alternative to Root Canal Therapy
If a tooth is beyond repair, your dentist may recommend an extraction. Sometimes this is the only viable option. However, if your tooth has sufficient healthy structure remaining, root canal therapy can save your tooth and keep your smile healthy for years to come.
If you believe you have an infected tooth, please call our Midlothian, VA, practice at (804) 794-8745 to schedule an appointment.