What’s a root canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure done to remove an infection in the center of your tooth, known as the pulp chamber. This chamber has connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. If it becomes infected, there’s a risk of losing your tooth.
Dr. Chong performs root canal retreatments if you have a previous root-canal-treated tooth that fails or develops an infection again. This is the best option to preserve your adult tooth.
What are the symptoms of needing a root canal?
The following symptoms could indicate you have a tooth infection and may need a root canal:
- Discomfort when chewing or biting
- Dull ache or pain
- Pus coming from around your tooth
- Swollen or tender gums
- Hot or cold sensitivity in your tooth
- Discomfort that wakes you up at night
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important you schedule a consultation with Dr. Chong and his team to take X-rays of your tooth.
What can I expect during the root canal procedure?
To begin your root canal, Dr. Chong uses a local anesthetic to numb the area near your affected tooth. He then makes a small opening on the top of your tooth to expose the infected pulp, removes all the bacteria inside, and finishes by cleaning the canals in your tooth.
Once Dr. Chong cleans and disinfects your tooth’s canals, he fills the space with a dental sealant to prevent another infection. Afterwards, the area around your surgery site may be painful, sore, and swollen. You can treat these symptoms with over-the-counter pain medications.
How do I prevent a tooth infection?
The most important part of preventing a tooth infection is to practice proper oral hygiene by brushing twice a day while flossing and using mouthwash at least once daily. Dr. Chong also recommends you have semiannual dental checkups and cleanings.
While you can prevent some tooth infections by maintaining good oral hygiene, other common causes of an infected tooth include a dental injury or a chip or crack in your tooth, which can happen to anyone.
No need to worry, though, as modern dentistry has made root canal treatments simpler and less painful than in years past. Root canals are an effective and painless option to save your tooth. To learn more, call Dr. Chong and his staff at Centreville Dental Design or book your appointment online.
