Do I Need a Root Canal?

Tooth-saving root canals help you keep your smile intact. Clifton, NJ, dentist Dr. Toan Bui describes the root canal process and shares aroot canal few signs and symptoms that may occur if you need root canal therapy.

Getting to the root of the problem

Root canals are necessary when your tooth pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The pulp forms the soft core of a tooth and is made up of nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue. Living with an inflamed or infected tooth can be very uncomfortable. If the pulp isn't removed during root canal therapy, pain will intensify, and you may be more likely to develop an abscess, a serious bacterial infection. Eventually, there may be no other choice but to remove the tooth.

Fortunately, root canals can help you avoid tooth loss. Root canal therapy involves removing the pulp and thoroughly cleaning the inside of the tooth and the narrow canals that extend into your roots. A durable, rubber-based filling seals and protects the tooth. In many cases, you'll also need a crown after your treatment, as your treated tooth will be a little more fragile.

Common signs and symptoms that may mean you need a root canal

A root canal may be necessary if you experience chronic pain in a tooth. Because tooth pain may have several causes, it's important to schedule an appointment with your dentist in our Clifton, NJ, office when you first experience a toothache. An inflammation or infection in your pulp can cause increased sensitivity in teeth. Chewing can be particularly painful, and you may soon avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth. Indulging in a sugary, hot or cold food or beverage is a bad idea when you need a root canal. Even a small sip or bite can cause pain that lasts up to a half-hour.

Your infection or inflammation can cause a few obvious symptoms. If you take a look in your mouth, you may notice that the gum around the tooth is red or swollen. In some cases, a tooth that needs a root canal may darken.

Swelling on one side of your jaw isn't uncommon if you develop an abscess. In addition to a swollen face, you may also experience a fever, swollen lymph nodes, pus around your tooth and severe, throbbing pain. Let us know immediately if you notice any of these symptoms. An abscess is a dental emergency and must be treated as soon as possible to prevent the spread of the infection.

Do you have any of these symptoms? Call Clifton, NJ, dentist Dr. Toan Bui at (973) 458-9899 to schedule an appointment.

background image

Contact Us

Office Hours

Monday:

10:00 am-7:00 pm

Tuesday:

10:00 am-7:00 pm

Wednesday:

Closed

Thursday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed