Root Canals: Why You May Need One

Having any sort of tooth pain not only hurts, but can be annoying as well. Most of the time we ignore the pain until it goes away, however, this is your body’s way of telling you that something is not quite right. When this happens we need to listen to the signs and symptoms and hope it is nothing too serious. Unfortunately, if we let the pain continue and put off going to the dentist, it may turn out that now you need a root canal. 

A root canal is a type of dental procedure that cleans out the inside of your tooth that may be decaying. The inside of your tooth is filled with what is commonly referred to as the pulp. It is made up of tissues, nerves, and blood vessels that extend into your tooth’s roots nestled down in the jawbone. When decay gets inside the dental pulp it can become infected and inflamed which can kill off the nerves and tissues. If the problem is not dealt with sooner rather than later, it can start to effect the nerves as well. 
In the United States, over 15 million root canals are performed every year, according to the American Association of Endodontists, with more than 41,000 of the procedures done daily. It has been believed that a root canal is the most painful dental procedure to be performed, however, only 17% of those who have had a root canal describe it as the “most painful dental experience”. 

During the procedure, a root canal will have your dentist extracting any bacteria and decay that has built up inside the troubled tooth including the pulp, root, and nerves. They then will disinfect all areas with antibiotics to help prevent anymore decay and fill the empty roots. Your dentist will then deal the area and tooth to further help prevent another infection or decay. The treatment allows for your natural tooth to remain and prevents further decay, however, this does make the tooth fragile. Often times a crown is placed over the root canal to help protect the tooth. A specialist, known as endodontists, can perform the procedure, although, most dentist practices are equipped to perform a root canal as well. 

While there are many symptoms that can help determine if you need a root canal performed, the best way is to schedule an appointment with your dentist. Depending on what type of bacteria is infecting your tooth core, the symptoms are not always the same. Some common symptoms may include an ache or pain, sensitivity to both hot and/or cold temperatures, swollen gums, tooth discoloration, chipped or cracked tooth, or if a tooth feel loose. While not all these symptoms can point to an infection that leads to a root canal, any of them can be an indication that something is not quite right and a trip to the dentist should be scheduled.  

The only way to be sure you may need an Orlando root canals performed, is by visiting your dentist. Dr. Mark Dreyer, DMD and his highly educated and expert staff will help you to determine if this procedure will help with your tooth pain.