Uh oh! Did someone say “root canal”? Well if they did, it’s okay. Root canals no longer deserve a bad reputation. Today’s procedures are nothing like those infamous stories we’ve all heard. We consider it our duty to make you comfortable during your all your visits. That goes for routine visits as well as times when you have a toothache. Don’t let your fears keep you from receiving much-needed dental care.
When We Recommend a Root Canal
Sometimes a toothache is more than just a sensitive tooth and might require more attention than simple home remedies can provide. During your visit to Tosh Dental Group, we might discover that your toothache is caused by problems with the pulp (the material in the center of the tooth) of the aching tooth. If this is the case, then we would most likely recommend a root canal as a solution for your toothache.
Root canals treat infected teeth. They are often done if a cavity treatment cannot fix the issue because the infection is in the middle of your tooth. Getting infections there cannot always be prevented, but be sure to brush and floss to keep your oral health where it should be!
Root Canal Treatment
A root canal is a nickname for the treatment we do to remove infection from the root canal of your tooth. During root canal treatment, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected. It’s then filled and sealed. Afterward, the tooth is restored with a crown or filling for protection. The tooth then functions like normal again.
In more complex cases, Dr. Tosh may refer you to an endodontist, a dentist who specializes in root canal treatment. Often these doctors have access to specialized instruments as well as a practice focused on root canals and other dental surgeries. You’ll be in experienced hands with these specialists.
Root Canals — Not Something to Be Scared Of
Thankfully, root canals are a lot less scary than they used to be. Thanks to our advanced technology and better pain management, root canals can feel similar to getting a cavity filled. We will use some kind of anesthesia to keep you comfortable during your procedure. After your procedure, over-the-counter pain relievers should help with any residual achiness or pain.
Getting a root canal is also worth it for your oral health. If left untreated, tooth infections can spread to other teeth, increasing pain and threatening tooth loss.
A tooth root infection happens when bacteria reach the root of your tooth, which can happen if there is a cavity or a tiny crack in your tooth. Tooth infections can happen to both children and adults.
Unfortunately, you cannot always prevent your tooth root from getting infected. Good oral habits, such as brushing your teeth twice a day, visiting the dentist regularly, and flossing, decrease your risks of getting an infection.
How Do I Know If My Toothache Needs a Root Canal?
If you are having consistent toothaches, you should contact Tosh Dental Group in Lebanon, Indiana for treatment. There is no perfect way to know if you will need a root canal to treat your toothache, which is why you should find a dentist.
We will do an exam, and if we cannot tell from that, we will do an X-ray or scan. From that information, we will be able to make an informed decision. Toothaches are not to be taken lightly!
Find Toothache Relief in Lebanon, IN!
If you have a toothache or if your child is complaining of a toothache, schedule an exam. We can provide treatment that will relieve the pain caused by infection. We want to keep your teeth and gums looking and feeling healthy!