Signs That You Might Need a Root Canal

Decay and cavity are some of the most common dental issues faced by people not just in the USA but across the globe. The reasons for decay can be many from lack of oral hygiene to the consumption of sugar and carbs. Smoking, chewing tobacco, and dry mouth are some other factors that can cause decay and cavity. Unlike popular assumption, the cavity is not an issue only with kids but also in adults, says the dentist near 63127.

When the cavity is minor, the dentist cleans it and places fillings in the tooth. However, when the decay is severe, the dentist in Sunset Hills, MO, recommends getting a root canal done. It is often the best way of saving your natural tooth instead of getting it extracted.

What is a Root Canal?

The term root canal refers to the inner passage of the tooth between the roots. The procedure aims at removing the infected part from the tooth and relieving the pain. The root canal contains blood vessels and nerves. The common causes for a root canal include:

• Tooth decay reached the inner layer of the teeth causing pain.
• Cracks and chips in the teeth causing decay and pain.
• Risk factors that can cause infection such as injury or trauma to the tooth.

Reasons to Get a Root Canal Done

• Prolonged Sensitivity to Hot and Cold

If you have been experiencing sensitivity in teeth for a long time that refuses to go, it can be a sign of infection. Occasionally feeling sensitive to hot and cold is normal but prolonged sensitivity means you need medical attention. At this stage, the infection might still be in the pulp.

• Discoloration of the tooth can also be a visible symptom of infection in the tooth. The tooth will turn darker or gray and it is a sign that you might need a root canal done.
• Pain and Swelling in Gums is yet another sign of an infection that has reached the root. The swelling may not be extreme but it will last longer and remain confined to the concerned tooth.
• When the tooth loses some form of support, it becomes loose. Pulp recession due to infection can make the tooth loose. An abscess can also destabilize the tooth. Also, it can be another way around where loose tooth makes a way for bacteria to cause infection.

The Root Canal Procedure

• The dentist in St. Louis, MO, will first take an x-ray for determining the level of infection.
• The first step during the root canal procedure is to numb the area with the help of a local anesthetic. It makes the patient more comfortable. The dentist will then place a rubber dam around the teeth for keeping it dry.
• The dentist will then drill a hole on the top of the tooth for removing the damaged nerve and pulp tissue.
• Once you have removed the infected material, the dentist will seal the tooth on the same day with the help of a filling and place a temporary crown over it.
• The process will be completed after a few days by placing the permanent crown when it gets ready.

Aftercare Post Procedure

According to the dentist Sunset Hills near you, you will be supposed to eat soft foods and drinks for a few days after the procedure. You will also be asked to avoid drinking too hot or cold beverages. The brushing and flossing routine will remain the same. You will be asked to visit the dentist every few days for initial months to check the recovery and healing of the root canal. You may experience some pain after the procedure which can be managed with the help of painkillers prescribed by the dentist.

How Much Does the Root Canal Procedure Cost?

A root canal procedure is any day less expensive than getting a tooth extracted and replacing it with implants. The average cost of a root canal in the USA is 350 dollars for an incisor and 520 dollars for a molar.

If you are skeptical about getting a root canal treatment done, it is time to visit a dentist near you so that you can get your queries resolved.