A root canal is a procedure that your dentist may recommend if you have an infection in your tooth. During the root canal, the dentist will remove infected or damaged tooth pulp, then clean and seal the inner part of the tooth. This stops the infection from spreading. Once the tooth has been cleaned and sealed, the dentist will put a cap on the tooth (called a crown) to reinforce and protect the remaining enamel.
Dental infections don’t go away on their own, and without treatment, can lead to the spread of the infection to other parts of the body. Knowing the signs of a dental infection can help you seek treatment before the problem worsens.
1. Cracked or Chipped Tooth
Small cracks and chips in tooth enamel can be caused by trauma or even by chewing. These small chips and cracks allow bacteria to reach the inner part of the tooth.
Early treatment can prevent infection. If you’ve noticed your tooth is chipped or cracked, talk to your dentist. Your dentist in Tampa can determine whether a root canal, a crown, or another type of treatment is appropriate.
2. Persistent Toothache
Dental infections are usually more painful than cavities and other minor tooth problems. The pain often gets worse when you chew or apply pressure to the tooth. Even if the pain comes and goes, this can still indicate infection.
Tooth pain rarely resolves without professional treatment, so even if you think that your tooth pain is a minor problem rather than an infection, you should still go to the dentist as soon as possible.
3. Lingering Sensitivity
If one or more of your teeth are suddenly sensitive to hot and cold, this could indicate that your tooth has a crack and/or nerve damage. Make an appointment with your dentist to be sure.
4. Tooth Discoloration
A gray or discolored tooth may have internal damage, caused by decay or infection in the tooth. This type of discoloration is not the same as the type of discoloration that’s caused by staining foods. In the case of an infection, only one tooth will be affected.
5. Swelling in Gums or Face
Swelling is a common symptom of infection. Often, swelling is accompanied by pain and/or tenderness. When swelling accompanies a dental infection, this can signal a dental abscess. Dental abscesses require immediate treatment to prevent infection from spreading to other parts of your body.
6. Pimple-Like Bump on the Gum
A pimple-like bump on the gum is another sign of a dental abscess. The bump is a buildup of pus near the tooth root. In addition to the root canal, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to treat this problem.
Think You Need a Root Canal? Call Weninger Dentistry Today
If you believe you may have a dental infection, don’t wait to get help. Call Weninger Dentistry for immediate help from a skilled, experienced dental professional in Tampa, Florida.