When a tooth becomes infected, treatment is crucial for preventing tooth loss and preserving the smile. In order to treat infections, we offer our Dallas, TX, patients a root canal procedure. Treatment enables our team to remove infected tissue and restore teeth to optimal health, beauty, and function. How does a root canal repair your smile? When should you see your dentist?
The Dangers an Infection Poses
A dental infection occurs when harmful bacteria comes into contact with the pulp, your tooth’s nerve center. Typically, the pulp is protected by a layer of porous dentin and an outer layer of strong tooth enamel. However, should something compromise enamel, bacteria can reach the dentin and cause a cavity to develop. Without treatment, a cavity will grow and spread until bacteria is allowed access to the pulp. The causes of damaged enamel could include erosion due to poor oral hygiene weakening the outer layer, or as a result of the tooth becoming cracked or chipped. An infection causes pain when eating, toothaches and tooth sensitivity, swelling near the tooth, fever, and a discharge from the tooth. Over time, lack of treatment could mean the tooth becomes lost!
The Root Canal Process
After we administer a local anesthetic (and sedation for some), we will open the tooth and then remove the infected tissue from within. The next step is to clean the inside of the tooth. We place a restorative filling material into the tooth and complete the procedure by placing a custom-made dental crown. The crown not only looks natural, but can absorb serious bite forces and protect the tooth from further decay or injury. The entire procedure only takes one visit to complete and safeguards the tooth.
Preventing Future Infections
To reduce the risk of future injury, be sure you’re wearing a mouthguard if you play sports. To avoid cavities leading to dental infections, make time to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each session, and also make time to floss before going to bed at night. Try to avoid sugary foods and drinks, which feed harmful oral bacteria and boost the risk of cavities and infected teeth. Finally, make time to see us every six months for a checkup and cleaning, so we can monitor your smile’s health and remove plaque buildup, keeping your smile bright and healthy. If you have any questions about the root canal process, or about keeping your teeth healthy, then contact our team today.
Gentle Smiles Treats Infected Teeth
With routine care we can help repair and restore teeth in a single visit. To learn more about treating cavities and infections, then please contact us today by calling 972-329-7645 (972-329-SMILE) to schedule an appointment with your Dallas, TX, dentist!
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