Signs That You May Need Root Canal Therapy

The thought of undergoing a root canal makes some people nervous, but root canals offer many benefits. Root canal treatment makes it possible to preserve a tooth and avoid extraction. There are several signs a root canal might be needed, such as experiencing sharp pain when biting into food. See a dentist promptly if you develop signs associated with needing a root canal. At Millennium Park Dental, Drs. Dean and Nicole Sana are your Chicago, IL, dentists for root canal treatment.

Signs a Root Canal is Needed

When the soft pulp material at the center of a tooth becomes infected, the infection can spread down into the canals of the root. In some cases, the infection even spreads outside the tooth and cause an abscess to form in the gums. Left untreated, the infection can continue spreading to other areas of the mouth. Additionally, if the affected tooth is not treated in a timely manner, extracting the tooth might be the only option. Root canal treatment makes it possible to preserve the tooth, as well as restore it so it can resume normal functioning.

An infected tooth in need of a root canal is often too weak to perform normal biting and chewing functions. Experiencing extreme sensitivity, pain, or discomfort when biting into food is an indication that the tooth is infected and might need root canal treatment. See your Chicago, IL, dentist if you develop any of the following signs associated with needing a root canal:

• A persistent or severe toothache
• Sharp pain when biting or chewing food
• Persistent pain or pressure in the mouth
• Extreme sensitivity to cold or hot foods and drinks

Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is nothing to fear. The dentist removes all signs of infected pulp. Once infected pulp has been removed from the tooth and root, the area is thoroughly cleaned. Finally, empty areas inside the tooth and root are filled with an inert material, and the tooth protected with a dental crown, which strengthens the tooth. Following the procedure, the tooth will free of infection and will be strong enough to bite into and chew food without pain or sensitivity.

A root canal can strengthen and restore an infected tooth so extraction is not necessary. See a dentist for treatment if you develop any of the signs of needing a root canal, such as sensitivity or pain. To schedule an appointment with either Dr. Dean or Nicole Sana, your dentists in Chicago, IL, contact Millennium Park Dental at (312) 236-3253.