By Swain Thorne
Before you schedule root canal treatment, understand the cause of infection and treatment options to save the tooth and post-treatment advice. Below is a list of questions to ask the endodontist to gain all the necessary details.
What causes an infection in the root canal system?
In the interior of the root canal resides the soft tissue called the pulp. It gets infected or inflamed because of several reasons including –
- Severe decay
- Chip or crack in the tooth
- Repeated dental procedure on a specific tooth
- Faulty crown
- A tooth injury [crack or chip is not visible]
The source of infection in the root canal helps to determine the treatment option for resolving the infection. It even helps to take precautionary steps to avoid root canal treatment in the future.
Why is it necessary to treat infection in the root canal system? Is there no drug for a complete cure?
Root canals are recommended because you are already experiencing common symptoms like –
- Cracked or chipped tooth
- Pimples on gums
- Severe pain on biting and chewing
- Tender or swollen gums
- Lingering tooth sensitivity
- Darkening of gums or deep decay
If the root canal treatment is delayed, then the symptoms will worsen and trigger large issues like –
- Swelling
- Increased pain
- Bone loss
- Infection
Infection if ignored can spread around the surrounding tissue within your mouth and even across the body. In severe cases, untreated root canal infection has spread to the face, jaw, and even bloodstream. So, contact the root canal specialist at Orion Dental Specialties located in Cypress, TX. The dental professionals in Cypress have more than three decades of experience in handling dental implants as well as emergency, cosmetic, and family dentistry.
Are there treatment options besides root canal?
While working on treatment options, you will wish to save the natural tooth because it helps in efficient chewing, protects other teeth from strain or excessive wear & tear, normal sensation & biting force, and natural appearance. You can select an extraction that involves removing and replacing an infected tooth with a bridge or an implant. Extractions eliminate the natural tooth benefits and are expensive than endodontic treatment.
An endodontist is a root canal dentist with experience in saving the natural tooth. They must finish an extra 2 to 3 years of special training besides the dental school. It makes them an expert in saving teeth. To maintain natural tooth, you can discuss two main treatment options
- Convectional root canal – Treatment fluids and files are used to eliminate the infected pulp soft tissue. Thus clean, fill, and seal the tooth interior. It takes two sessions but helps to preserve the natural tooth. Post-treatment complications can occur with this option that can lead to re-treatment or surgery.
- GentleWave procedure – It is a minimally invasive protocol that preserves a more natural tooth structure as well as promotes fast healing. The procedure is concluded in a single session.
How to increase the potential of root canal recovery?
Avoid eating immediately after treatment. Avoid biting or chewing the cured tooth until it is restored completely. Scheduled follow-up dentist appointments must be completed. Proper oral hygiene and care practices are also essential for long-term success.
