Root Canals

What is a Root Canal Treatment?

A root canal can eliminate some kinds of tooth pain. Root canal treatment — also called endodontics (“endo” – inside, “dont” – tooth) — is a set of specialized procedures designed to treat problems of the soft pulp (nerve) tissue inside the tooth. And, with proper anesthesia (sedation) and a comfortable environment, it should not be painful process.

A root canal procedure becomes necessary when infection or inflammation develops in the pulp tissue of the tooth. You may feel intense pain as result because pulp tissue consists of blood vessels, connective tissue and nerve cells. While the pain may diminish or go away in time, without treatment, however, the infection will not go away. It can lead to a dental abscess, and may even contribute to systemic problems in other parts of the body, such as pain and swelling of the face.

A Root Canal Treatment Will Help

It’s certainly true that infection or inflammation in the tooth’s pulp can be excruciatingly painful. But you should remember that having a root canal results in eliminating this acute pain and is not the cause of the pain.

Another reason not to delay treatment is that a natural tooth that can be saved via root canal treatment and restoration will help you avoid the possibility of a tooth extraction, which can lead to the need for bridgework or dental implants.

Causes of Root Canal Problems

Root canal problems stem from infection and inflammation of the tooth’s pulp tissue. One potential cause of infection is deep tooth decay. Untreated dental cavities eventually allow bacteria to work their way down to the center of the tooth, where they may infect the pulp tissue. Another path by which bacteria may come into contact with pulp is via chipped or cracked teeth. Any opening in the protective enamel coating has the potential to allow bacteria access to the tooth’s pulp.

Trauma to the tooth — the kind that might result from a sports injury or automobile accident, for example — is also a major cause of pulp tissue damage. In this case, it’s essential to seek treatment immediately, both to try and save the tooth, and to prevent future problems.

In some cases, extensive dental work itself may cause damage to the pulp tissue that will need to be treated via a root canal. Having multiple fillings or restorations on the same tooth increases the chances of this type of injury. Occasionally, common procedures like crown preparation may eventually lead to root canal problems.

Signs and Symptoms of Root Canal Problems

How do you know when you need a root canal? Sometimes, it’s painfully obvious. If you feel constant and severe pain and pressure in your mouth, or noticeable swelling and extreme sensitivity in your gums, then it’s clear you need to come in for evaluation and treatment right away. Another telltale symptom of pulp tissue damage is sharp pain when you bite down on food. Lingering pain after eating hot or cold foods is also an indication of potential trouble. If you notice any of these symptoms, please come in for an examination.

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Call (360) 734-6620 or click here to book an appointment with Dr. Yaremko.

What is a Root Canal Treatment?

A Root Canal Treatment Will Help

Causes of Root Canal Problems

Signs and Symptoms of Root Canal Problems

Eric Yaremko, DMD, PS

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