Signs You May Need Root Canal Therapy
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call our office right away:
- Severe toothache
- Extreme sensitivity to hot and cold
- Chewing pain
- Discolored tooth
- Swollen and tender gums around the tooth
How Root Canal Therapy Works
To begin the procedure, Dr. Kovacevic will numb the area around your infected tooth with a local anesthetic. He’ll then create an opening in the tooth so he can remove the infected tissue and fill the empty chamber with a special dental resin to guard against further infection.
Once this is finished, Dr. Kovacevic will reseal your tooth and protect it with a durable, natural-looking porcelain crown. This will eliminate your pain and allow you to keep your natural tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does root canal therapy hurt?
Though root canal therapy has a reputation for being painful, this isn’t really the case. Dr. Kovacevic will numb your tooth with a local anesthetic, ensuring you don’t feel any pain during treatment.
Should my tooth hurt a week after the procedure?
While you may experience mild discomfort after the procedure, this should fade within a week. If you’re still feeling pain past this point, contact us right away.
What is a hot tooth?
When bacteria infect your tooth, they wear down the enamel and leave your nerves exposed. This can result in prolonged sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
How can you tell if a tooth is dead?
A dying tooth can appear yellow, brown, gray, or even black. You’ll also likely experience toothaches or gum pain around the dead tooth.
How do I know if the nerves in my tooth are dead?
The edges of your teeth contain nerve endings that are extremely sensitive, causing severe pain when a nerve dies.
Can root canal therapy cause headaches?
If you’re experiencing headaches or any other debilitating pain after treatment, let us know immediately.
How long does root canal therapy take?
Root canal therapy is typically completed in a single appointment, though larger infections may require more time to treat.