If you neglect to care for your teeth properly, cavities can materialize. Over time, those cavities can cause decay. Left untreated, the decay will eventually penetrate the nerve and pulp, resulting in pain and potentially leading to infection. When the problem has advanced to a stage that threatens the integrity of your tooth, the only way to save it is through endodontic treatment. Also known as a root canal, the procedure can be performed by most dentists. However, an endodontist completes years of additional training related to the treatment.

In today\'s article, you\'ll learn about signs that suggest you may need endodontic treatment. I\'ll also describe what you can expect during the procedure and clarify a few common myths people have about it.

Signs That You May Need A Root Canal

As you would expect, if you\'re experiencing severe pain or discomfort in your teeth, you should make an appointment with your dentist. Also, sensitivity to hot or cold items (i.e. food, drinks, etc.) may indicate a problem, especially if that sensitivity remains after the hot or cold item is no longer present. The reason for the pain or sensitivity is often due to decay having spread into the nerve or pulp.

Other signs can include swelling in the gum line, pain within the lymph nodes, and darkening in a tooth. It\'s important to note that you may need endodontic treatment even if these symptoms are not present. That\'s one of the reasons why you need to make regular appointments with your dentist.

What To Expect During Treatment

Your endodontist will take x-rays of your mouth in order to identify the level of decay that exists within the affected tooth. Then, he\'ll isolate the tooth and keep it dry from saliva by placing a rubber dental dam over it. Next, a hole is drilled through the center in order to provide access to the nerve and pulp chamber. Your endodontist will then use root canal files to clean out the decay and debris.

If an infection is present, medication may be applied to get rid of it. Otherwise, the dentist will use a paste and rubber mixture known as \"gutta percha\" in order to seal the tooth before placing a filling on it. In some cases, a crown might be placed on top of it to lend support and protection.

Common Misperceptions

The most common myth about root canals is that they\'re intensely painful. In fact, they\'re not. The methods, technologies, and anesthetics that are used today by an endodontist make the procedure practically pain-free. Another misperception is that the treatment requires several visits to the dentist\'s office. Again, that\'s rarely the case. An experienced endodontist can often perform a root canal - including x-rays, cleaning, and placing the sealant and filling - in a single visit.

There\'s also confusion regarding the presence of pain in a tooth. A lot of people mistakenly think that endodontic treatment is only necessary if severe pain exists. However, in some cases, the procedure may be necessary even if there is no discomfort.

Enjoying Good Dental Health

Left unchecked, decay can spread and cause an infection within your tooth. Given enough time, that infection can cause pus to collect at the tip of the root, eventually leading to an abscess. Once that happens, the bone around your tooth can sustain damage. Maintaining the health of your teeth is critical. In addition to brushing and flossing, make an appointment with your dentist every six months. If he identifies advanced decay or infection, he may refer you to an experienced endodontist.

Don\'t be alarmed at the prospect of needing a root canal. Remember, with the methods used by your endodontist, the procedure is practically pain-free. Plus, it can restore the affected tooth and put you back on the road toward good dental health.