Tooth infection treatment can ease pain and preserve the smile. Root canal therapy is one of the most effective ways to address severe tooth infections that have reached the inner pulp of the tooth. By removing the infection, cleaning the canal, and sealing the tooth, this procedure not only relieves pain but also prevents further damage. With prompt tooth infection treatment, patients can keep their natural teeth and continue smiling confidently.
A tooth infection occurs when bacteria enter the inner portion of the tooth, known as the pulp. This can happen as a result of deep decay, a crack, or trauma to the tooth. Once the tooth’s pulp becomes infected, pain and swelling follow. Pus may start to build up, as well.
The presence of an infection compromises the tooth's structural integrity, and without intervention, the infection can worsen, spreading through the root to other areas of the mouth and jaw. While antibiotics may help control the infection temporarily, the bacteria may remain inside the tooth. An endodontist may then be able to perform a root canal to eliminate the infection completely.
Root canal therapy is a well-established treatment for tooth infections when performed by an endodontist. To perform a root canal, the endodontist first removes the infected pulp from inside the tooth, which is why the treatment is so effective. Next, they clean the canal to get rid of any remaining bacteria. The last step is to fill the tooth with gutta-percha, a rubberlike material, to seal it against reinfection. If a significant amount of the tooth had to be removed, the endodontist may cap the tooth with a dental crown to restore its strength, shape, and appearance.
This common tooth infection treatment not only stops the infection but also helps preserve the tooth itself, which would otherwise need to be pulled. The endodontist will perform the procedure with the use of local anesthesia (and sometimes other pain management methods) so that it is pain-free for the patient. Many patients find that after a root canal, they experience notable long-term pain relief and can return to normal daily activities with a restored, healthy tooth.
Once the root canal is complete and the infection is cleared, restoring the tooth is the next step. As mentioned, the endodontist may recommend a crown to protect and restore the tooth’s shape and function. There are several types of crowns available, such as porcelain for a natural look, metal for strength, and porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) for a combination of durability and aesthetics. An endodontist can recommend a crown type according to the patient’s needs and preferences.
With a root canal, an endodontist can address the infection at its source and preserve the natural tooth structure. To learn more about this common tooth infection treatment, contact our Newport Beach team. We can also help you explore other potential treatment options.
Request an appointment here: https://newportrootcanal.com or call Newport Root Canal at (949) 274-9190 for an appointment in our Newport Beach office.
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