Endodontics is a type of dentistry that concerns the pulp, or the soft inside portion of a tooth. When this pulp becomes infected, you’ll need a root canal procedure to save the tooth. If left untreated, a tooth infection can spread to the rest of your body and lead to other complications.
Symptoms of a Tooth Infection
There are several different symptoms a tooth abscess might cause, and it’s important to be aware of them. Here are few of the most common signs of a tooth infection:
- Severe tooth pain that can radiate to other parts of your head and jaw
- Tooth sensitivity, especially to temperature
- Fever
- Swelling in your face, jaw, or lymph nodes
- Difficulty swallowing
If you experience any of these symptoms, call our office and make an appointment immediately.
Root Canal Therapy
If caught early, we can save an infected tooth from extraction through a root canal procedure. Root canal therapy has a bad reputation, but advancements in dental technology and anesthesia have completely transformed the procedure.
During a root canal procedure, our dentists will remove the infected pulp from inside your tooth and thoroughly clean the area, nullifying the infection.
Once the inside of your tooth has been disinfected and the infection has been removed, we will fill the area with a putty-like substance called gutta-percha to stabilize and seal the tooth. This prevents the infection from returning.
Your tooth will then be topped with a dental crown to protect the area and restore the appearance of your smile. You may experience some discomfort and swelling right after the procedure, but these should go away in a few days. Our dentists will talk to you about proper aftercare for the affected tooth.
Ready to Make an Appointment?
Root canal therapy can save your tooth, but only if the tooth infection is caught early. Don’t hesitate to give us a call. To make an appointment with our root canal dentists in Shelby Township, MI, call the office of Jeffrey T. Baker DDS at (586) 992-9222 today.
