How would you know if you a needed Root Canal? We understand that it’s not something that any of us want to think about, but if not treated, it could become a lot worse. At Shifnal Dental Care, we are here to help!
Root Canal procedures are performed when an infection in a tooth occurs, as a result of bacteria that lives in the mouth invading the tooth. This invasion of bacteria is made possible by tooth decay, leaky fillings, or damage that is the result of a trauma like falling over. The procedure itself is only needed if an x-ray shows that the pulp (soft tissue) in the tooth has been damaged and is performed as a measure to try and save the tooth. Preventing the extraction of the whole tooth itself.
Some early stage symptoms of an infection in the pulp of the tooth that could result in a Root Canal are:
- Pain when eating or drinking hot or cold food and drink.
- Pain when biting or chewing
- A loose tooth
These symptoms may ease over time and even disappear, but this does not mean that the infection has gone. Even though the tooth may look healthy and have no pain anymore the infection may have spread further through the root canal system. Eventually these symptoms will return with several others in tow:
- Swelling of the gum
- Pus may ooze from the infected tooth
- Facial Swelling
- The colour of the tooth darkening
The best ways to prevent the need for a Root Canal procedure are as simple as maintaining good dental hygiene, looking after any fillings in place in your teeth and reducing the amount of sugar consumed to prevent the erosion of teeth.
It is always best to visit your dentist when you develop a toothache, as this could prevent a Root Canal procedure being necessary and enable your dentist to do the best they can for you.
If you are worried about a filling or would just like some advice on oral hygiene, give Shifnal Dental Care a call today on 01952 460119 or fill in our enquiry form here: https://www.shifnaldentalcare.co.uk/contact-us/