When a tooth develops an infection, this could cause major discomfort and even complicate how you eat. Over time, you also risk the loss of a tooth. But with a root canal treatment, we can save the tooth and stop discomfort. At Root Canal Specialists of Baton Rouge, LA, we can help sleep your smile whole with a root canal procedure.
The Causes of an Infected Tooth
What causes an infected tooth to occur? Dental infection may be due to issues that compromise the outer enamel and allow harmful bacteria to reach the pulp, your tooth’s nerve center. This could be due to advanced tooth decay. Cavities could be due to damage that compromises the enamel or poor oral hygiene that causes plaque buildup to weaken and erode the enamel. The tooth could hurt and feel sensitive when you eat or drink. You could have a persistent toothache, swelling near the tooth, or pain in your face or jaw. You could also experience a poor-tasting discharge from the tooth. Don’t ignore the pain in your tooth; you could risk worsening pain and even tooth loss!
The Root Canal Procedure
Once we identify the presence and assess the position of your infection, we will numb the tooth to begin the root canal procedure. We need to open the tooth to access and remove the infected tissues from within. We then clean the interior of the tooth thoroughly. The next step is to add a special restorative filling material known as gutta percha. The last step is to cap the tooth with a crown, one custom-made to ensure a proper fit and balanced bite. We take time to shade it as well, so it blends with your tooth and offers a more lifelike appearance. You then leave our office with a restored tooth that no longer hurts.
Preventing an Infected Tooth
Steps could be taken to help prevent the onset of an infected tooth. For example, you can brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste and a toothbrush with soft bristles. You also need to floss every evening and try to cut back on the amount of sugar in your diet. You also benefit from a checkup and cleaning visit every six months, so we can monitor your smile and catch trouble in the early stages, often before you experience discomfort.
Learn More About Endodontic Treatment
We want to help you avoid discomfort and the risk of tooth loss. To find out more about how we treat your infected tooth, then speak with our team at Root Canal Specialists of Baton Rouge at (225) 766-3061, at one of our locations in both Baton Rouge and Denham Springs, LA!