When you have a tooth that hurts and makes chewing painful, then you may have an infected tooth that needs immediate attention. Otherwise, your tooth could become lost or allow the spread of infection! To bring comfort and prevent complications, your Olathe, KS, dentists could offer care with an endodontic treatment known as root canal therapy.
The Causes and Dangers of Dental Infection
An infected tooth means that your tooth’s nerve center, the pulp, has come into contact with harmful oral bacteria. Usually, the enamel and the inner layers of dentin prevent this from happening, so the pulp can continue keeping your tooth healthy and functional without interruption. But when a cavity isn’t treated in a timely manner, or an injury isn’t repaired, this could allow bacteria access to the pulp. Warning signs include pain when you bite and chew, tooth sensitivity, toothaches, swelling near the tooth, and even a discharge from it. When you experience one or more of these symptoms, don’t delay! Let us know right away so we can schedule a consultation and examination.
The Root Canal Treatment Process
When we find an infection, we will start treatment right away. A root canal means that we numb the tooth and for some, could offer sedation. Next, we open the tooth to remove the tissues from within, replacing them with a special filling material. The final step is to cap the tooth with a crown, which protects the remaining structure and prevents further decay or infection. The crown is custom-made and offers an attractive, lifelike appearance. In as little as one visit, we can save your smile from worsening pain and tooth loss.
Taking a Preventive Stand
You can also take steps to prevent a tooth from becoming infected. For example, always brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss every evening. These actions help remove stray food particles and prevent decay and infection. You also help by avoiding sugary foods and drinks, or meals high in starch, which promotes tooth decay. Take time to see us every six months for a checkup and cleaning every six months too! If you have any questions about avoiding or treating an infected tooth, or about our preventive treatment options, then contact our team today to learn more.
Do You Have an Aching Tooth?
Our team wants to offer an endodontic treatment to repair and restore a tooth and prevent it from becoming lost. Schedule an appointment today and learn more about treating infected teeth. You can also call E-Care Dentistry in Olathe, KS, today at 913-210-1701. Find our office at 15010 S Black Bob Road Olathe, KS 66062. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, and all surrounding communities.