Endodontics is a particular area of dentistry that specializes in the health of the inner tooth. People often encounter this field of dentistry after experiencing severe tooth pain. Underneath the hard, white enamel of a tooth is a soft pulp, considered by some to be the “live” part of the tooth. The inner tooth holds blood vessels and nerves that are very sensitive. When it becomes infected, the inflammation and pressure causes tooth pain.
Severe tooth pain is typically a sign of untreated tooth infection. If you’re experiencing relentless tooth pain, schedule an appointment with a dental care provider immediately. For the Snoqualmie and Tokul areas, Dr. Zhu is highly trained in endodontics and can help provide relief from tooth pain and recovery from infection.
What Happens During a Tooth Infection?
A tooth infection can occur from tooth decay or a damaged or impacted tooth. Bacteria makes its way inside the roots and spreads to the tooth and gums, while the pressure caused by inflammation builds, aggravating sensitive nerves inside the tooth and causing severe pain. Although some severe cases warrant tooth extraction to treat the infection, most tooth infections can be treated with root canal therapy.
If you exhibit these symptoms, you may have a tooth infection in need of treatment:
- Intense tooth pain
- Tooth discoloration
- Swollen gums
- Pus coming from the jawbone
- Halitosis (abnormally bad breath)
- Facial swelling
- Gum pain
Root canal therapy is a highly effective oral surgery that clears decay and bacteria from an infected tooth, and it helps a person keep their natural tooth even after an infection. During a root canal, a small portion of the tooth is removed, allowing our dentists to access the inner tooth, during which the tooth is sterilized, nerves are removed, and the causes of infection are eliminated. We then use specialized bonding material to refill and close the tooth. Depending on its condition, we may also recommend placing a dental crown over the treated tooth for reinforcement and protection.
What to Expect after a Root Canal
Some of your limitations will be dependent on the kind of anesthesia administered during the procedure; for example, local anesthetics may permit you to return to work or school, but deeper anesthetics may not. Although you may feel some discomfort in the days immediately following the procedure, you can use over-the-counter medications to minimize it, and the discomfort should subside within a few days. Dr. Zhu will have a follow-up appointment scheduled as well to ensure that your tooth is fully functional and pain-free.
Do I Need a Root Canal?
Tooth decay and tooth pain may prompt you to look for appropriate treatment options, but you cannot discern what kind of endodontic treatment you need without the oversight of an experienced professional. Dr. Zhu is a qualified and well-respected endodontist who helps patients get rid of tooth pain quickly and permanently. We do everything we can to ensure each patient receives top-notch care. Reach out to us today to address your tooth pain the right way!