Save Your Tooth and Your Smile with a Root Canal
In the past, a tooth with a diseased nerve would be lost. Today, we can save your tooth and your smile with a relatively simple dental procedure called a root canal.
Why Do You Need a Root Canal?
When a tooth is cracked or has a deep cavity, bacteria can cause an infection inside the tooth. An infection can damage the nerve inside the tooth, which provides the sensation of hot or cold. If left untreated, an infection may cause complications, including:
- An abscess inside the tooth.
- Pain and swelling that could injure your jawbone and affect your overall health
- Your tooth may have to be removed
Signs That You Need a Root Canal
Teeth that need a root canal are not always painful. Here are some other signs that you may need a root canal:
- Severe toothache
- Painful chewing or pressure
- Pain or sensitivity to heat and cold
- Dark, discolored teeth
- Swollen, tender gums
If you experience these symptoms, contact Valley Hills Dentistry as soon as possible.
What Happens During A Root Canal?
During a root canal, we relieve the cause of the pain without affecting the day-to-day function of the tooth. Over the course of one to three visits, we will:
- Remove the diseased nerve and tissue inside the tooth
- Clean and seal the tooth
- Fill the tooth with a dental composite
Follow-Up Treatment For Your Root Canal
- If your tooth had extensive decay, we may suggest a crown to strengthen and protect the tooth from breaking.
- Continue to care for your teeth and gums with regular brushing, flossing, and checkups to help your restored tooth last a lifetime.
See How a Root Canal Can Deliver the Relief You Need
Schedule a consultation with Valley Hills Dentistry in Hickory, NC, to discuss how a root canal may the answer to save your tooth while saving you from unnecessary pain.
