Endodontics in Mobile AL

Root canal treatment (also known as endodontics) is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected. Teeth can become severely infected or damaged because of mainly two reasons - tooth decay or trauma.

During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected, and abscesses may form, eventually leading to tooth loss. 

A root canal procedure is performed under local anesthesia by a dentist or endodontist, and patients typically report little to no discomfort during the procedure. However, it is common for patients to experience some sensitivity following the procedure. This will subside in a few days. 

What Are The Symptoms of Root Canal Infection?

Root canal infection symptoms such as:

• Swelling around the tooth 
• Severe tooth pain
• Facial swelling
• Lymph nodes draining
• Tenderness to palpation
• Tooth discoloration
• Bad breath
• A bad taste in your mouth
• Gum abscess
• Extreme tooth sensitivity
• Pain or tenderness around the tooth
• Swollen lymph nodes

What Happens During The Root Canal Procedure?

If your dentist suspects you may need root canal treatment, they will likely refer you to an endodontist, a dentist who specializes in endodontics. Your endodontist will first review your dental history, take X-rays, and perform an examination of your tooth. If your endodontist determines that your root canal treatment is needed, they will start the procedure. The steps involved in an endodontic treatment are as follows:

• First, your dentist will numb the area to be treated.
• Then, your dentist will create an opening in the tooth.
• The dentist will remove any infected tissue from the tooth.
• The dental team will clean and shape the canals.
• The dentist will fill the canals with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha.
• Finally, your dentist will place a dental crown over the tooth.

What Happens After A Root Canal?

Root canal treatment gets rid of the infection by removing diseased tissue and disinfecting the tooth. Once the infection is gone, the tooth will need to be protected with a dental crown or filling.

If you suspect you need root canal treatment, don’t wait to schedule an appointment. Delaying treatment can cause you additional pain and more expensive treatment down the road.

To learn more about the dental services offered by Azalea Road Dental, call Dentist in Mobile, AL at (251) 666-1310 or schedule an appointment online.