If you have a large cavity in your tooth that cannot be filled by a dental filling or the tooth decay is too extensive in that it has affected the inside of your tooth, you may need a root canal.
What Causes Severe Tooth Decay?
The infection may be caused by deep decay from an untreated cavity, chip, or crack in a tooth, from poorly adjusted or removable dental work, or an untreated injury to your teeth.
Do I Need a Root Canal?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should contact our Boise office today so that we can accurately determine the treatment you need:
- Pain
- Prolonged tooth sensitivity to heat or cold
- Tenderness in the mouth, as well as the lymph nodes
- Discoloration of the tooth
- Swelling
Root Canal Treatment
This procedure aims to alleviate the pain caused by dental decay and restore your teeth. If severe decay is left untreated, it will result in acute discomfort and even tooth loss.
The treatment requires the tooth decay to be removed. Usually in the case of a root canal, the decay has spread to the soft, nerve filled center of the tooth, known as dental pulp. The pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned, shaped and sealed and capped off with a crown. This may not all be done in one appointment as a crown usually has to be custom made in a dental laboratory. A temporary crown may be fitted onto your tooth until the permanent crown is made.
What to Expect After a Root Canal
Modern techniques and using anesthetics make it possible for patients to stay comfortable during the process.
You will experience some sensitivity on your teeth for a couple of days following the procedure and the tooth may feel different from the other teeth for some time. Should you notice any great pain that lasts over a couple of days, you need to phone our office. We also can suggest some over the counter pain medicine to take care of the discomfort following the procedure.
Dental Care After a Root Canal
If the tooth isn’t completely restored on your initial dentist appointment, and currently have a temporary dental crown, it’s advised not to chew on the treated tooth, since it’s likely to fracture.
Following the complete recovery, you must practice good oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and regular checkups and cleanings, to keep the restoration healthy along with your natural teeth.
It’s very important to look after your dental crown because new injuries, deep corrosion, or even a loose, chipped or cracked filling may cause new infection in your tooth.
At Lamb Family Dental, we treat root canals with our “gentle as a lamb” approach. Root canals can prevent further infection so go ahead and call 208-344-6300 and learn how Lamb Family Dental can help you!
