Recognizing and Treating Symptoms of Root Canal Infection

Root canal. For many dental patients, there are no two scarier words. In the past, this treatment had earned a reputation for being extremely uncomfortable and painful. And it’s likely due to this perception that so many choose to ignore symptoms before it’s too late.

This is why understanding the symptoms that make root canals necessary is so important. Understanding the root canal process can help alleviate concerns, as the procedure is not as bad as its reputation.

At Martin Taylor Dentistry, our experienced dentists can provide top-notch root canal treatment if you suspect you need a root canal.

Understanding the Symptoms of Tooth Decay

Severe tooth decay is the primary reason for needing a root canal. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in your mouth attack your tooth enamel. This can result in cavities or holes in your teeth. These harmful bacteria can spread to the dental pulp at the tooth’s center. 

Often, patients receive treatments such as a simple filling designed to prevent a compromised tooth from experiencing further decay. However, if the infection spreads deeper into the pulp – tissue consisting of nerves, blood vessels, and other sensitive material – the situation often requires a root canal.

Debunking the Myth of Root Canal Therapy

There is a lot of misinformation about root canals, often fueled by Hollywood depictions of the procedure. At Martin Taylor Dentistry, our top priority is patient comfort, and we always strive to ensure a stress-free and relaxing experience for our patients.

The purpose of a root canal procedure is to clean out the infected inner tooth pulp, which, if left untreated, can spread the infection. We then disinfect the tooth before it is sealed and, in most cases, topped with a dental crown. The main objective of a root canal is to save and restore a severely damaged or infected tooth, thereby avoiding the need for extraction.

Safe and Comfortable Root Canal Treatment

Although a root canal treatment may sound scary, it is not as painful as many think. Our dentists are highly experienced and skilled in the procedure and know how to make you feel relaxed and comfortable during it. We aim to ensure you leave our office feeling as little discomfort as possible.

Here are a few more reasons root canal therapy is a safe option:

• It eliminates bacteria from the infected root canal
• Prevents reinfection
• Saves a natural tooth

The only other alternative to root canal treatment is tooth extraction, which involves additional costs if you plan to get a replacement, such as an implant or bridge. Not replacing a missing tooth can cause your remaining teeth to shift and possibly cause jawbone loss.

Experience Relief from Pain and Fear

At Martin Taylor Dentistry, we prioritize making our patients feel comfortable and at ease, relieving pain, and improving oral health. We understand that fear can be a major barrier preventing many from seeking dental treatment. Addressing these underlying fears is essential to create a welcoming environment where our patients feel comfortable enough to come in for regular check-ups and treatments.

So, if you’re seeking relief from a painful infection, put your mind at ease by calling our team at (520) 600-6925 to schedule your consultation with our doctors. Your peace of mind, oral health, and satisfaction are our top concerns.