When a tooth develops an infection, this can be a source of major discomfort and over time, could increase the risk of tooth loss. But we can offer an endodontic treatment to address the infected tooth and keep your smile whole. In today’s blog, your Kansas City, MO, dentist talks about how we treat infected teeth with a root canal procedure.

The Risks of an Infected Tooth

At the center of each tooth is a collection of living tissues known as the pulp. This is the nerve center of your tooth and when it is exposed to bacteria, this can cause an infection. The exposure could be brought on by an untreated cavity or even injury to the teeth. Chronic teeth grinding could also be a factor! When the infection develops, treatment is crucial to avoid losing the tooth. Warning signs could include tooth sensitivity when you eat or bite down, toothaches, swelling near the tooth, aches in the jaw and face, and even a discharge from the tooth. When one or more of these symptoms arise, contact our team right away for a diagnosis! You may need a root canal to save your smile.

Taking Steps to Keep You Comfortable

We know that the idea of a root canal can cause anxiety for some, but most patients find the procedure comparable to receiving a simple one-visit dental filling. We take time to ensure you feel rested and comfortable, and we will administer a local anesthetic to the area to numb the tooth and keep you comfortable. If you have anxiety or other factors that make undergoing care a difficult process. We could discuss sedation to help you enter a deep state of calm and relaxation, with little to no memory of the procedure even if you remain conscious.

Root Canal Therapy

When you are relaxed and ready, we will open the tooth to access and remove the tissues from within. Once we do, we will clean the interior of the tooth and the root canals. Once this step is complete, we add a special restorative material known as gutta percha, and cap the tooth with a custom-made dental crown. The crown will not only look natural but provide a balanced bite and safeguard the tooth against infection and decay. If you have any questions about how we treat dental infection with a root canal, or if you would like to schedule a visit when a tooth begins to hurt, then contact our team today!

Schedule Your Restorative Appointment With Our Team

We want to offer treatment to stop dental infection and prevent the loss of a tooth. To schedule an appointment with the team at Delightful Dental Care in Kansas City, MO, call our office today at 816-942-7669.