What Happens When Cavities Reach Your Tooth Roots?

pacific hills root canalA cavity causes toothaches and also spreads through your tooth with time. When it makes contact with your roots, this could lead to an infected tooth. To save your tooth, you need to undergo an endodontic procedure known as root canal therapy. In today’s blog, your Omaha, NE, dentist talks about our restorative procedure.

The Dangers of an Infection or Abscess

Cavities form when poor oral hygiene habits and a diet high in sugar allow plaque buildup to accumulate on the surfaces of the smile. The buildup then weakens and erodes the enamel, exposing the inner dentin to bacteria and allowing a cavity to form. An injury that cracks or chips a tooth could be responsible too. As the decay spreads, it makes contact with the pulp and lows a tooth to become infected or abscessed, Pain when eating is common, as is toothaches, swelling near a tooth, or possibly even a discharge from it. If you have persistent pain and sensitivity, and discomfort when you bite down or chew, let us know right away! Unless treated, an infection could grow so severe the tooth falls out, or requires removal to prevent the spread of infection to other parts of your smile!

The Root Canal Treatment

The root canal procedure is often compared to a filling, and with anesthesia and sedation we can ensure even those with extreme dental anxiety feel relaxed and comfortable. After we know you’re comfortable and relaxed, we will open the tooth so we can take out the infected tissues within. The inside of the tooth will be thoroughly cleaned, and we add a special restorative material to the interior. Finally, we cap your tooth with a custom crown, which protects the remaining stricture from injury or further decay or infection. The crown is also designed to look natural and blend with your smile seamlessly.

Preventive Care

What can we do to avoid cavities and infections? Start by eating a healthier diet and cutting back on sugar. Drink tap water to provide regular exposure to fluoride, strengthening your outer enamel. Be sure you brush and floss daily to remove stray food particles, and see our team for a checkup visit every six months. The checkup means we can treat a cavity in the earliest stages, before you experience discomfort, and offer treatment. We also clean the teeth, removing all harmful plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces. If you have any questions about treating an infected tooth, then give us a call today.

Talk To Your Omaha, NE Dentist About Endodontic Treatment

Our team would like to help repair your smile and bring relief with a root canal procedure. If you would like to find out more about our endodontic treatment options, please call our Omaha, NE, dental office today at (402)330-2243.