Root canals and fillings are used to treat teeth that have some kind of tooth decay or cavity. Dental fillings are used for smaller cavities whereas root canal therapy may be needed for teeth that have more extensive damage. Untreated cavities will progress to infect the pulp, creating the need for root canal treatment in order to save the tooth.
Root canals are necessary because the pulp or nerve becomes diseased cannot heal on it’s own. The tooth pulp/nerve will need to be cleaned and the damaged portion will need to be removed. If enough time goes by and the tooth is left untreated, you may lose the tooth. Treating the infected tooth in a quickly is required to save the tooth.
Signs and symptoms of needing a root canal include:
Constant, throbbing pain
Pain or tenderness when chewing
Tooth sensitivity to hot/cold foods and/or liquids
Swelling of the gums around the tooth
Tooth discoloration
If you think you have a cavity or infected tooth, contact us for an appointment. The earlier you treat the problem, the better chance there is that the tooth may be saved!