Your dentist utilizes root canal treatment in Jacksonville, FL, if you have a root canal infection. Fortunately, most root canal infections are avoidable with a few practical steps.
Lowering Your Risks for Root Infections
Root infections occur deep in the canal of your tooth, in the place that holds the root, pulp, and nerves. And infections often result from untreated tooth decay, poor oral hygiene, lack of appropriate dental care, or tooth trauma.
By brushing and flossing after every meal—twice daily at a minimum—you lower your risks for tooth root infections. It’s also crucial to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and teeth cleanings. And if you play sports, always wear a mouthguard.
Signs You Need a Root Canal in Jacksonville, FL
In some cases, if the infection is emerging, you may only notice tooth sensitivity. However, this sensitivity can graduate to excruciating pain over the course of a day or overnight.
Typical root infection symptoms include:
- Tooth sensitivity or pain
- Jaw and face swelling with pain
- Blister on the gum
In rare cases, if the tooth nerve is no longer viable or conductive, or if the infection is emergent, you may have little pain. However, it’s still important to see the dentist if you notice swelling or a blister on the gum, as infections can spread.
Root Canal Treatment Process
Some people hesitate to get root canal treatment because they’ve heard the legends, but the stories surrounding root canal treatment are just that: legends. The reality is root canal treatment eliminates pain and saves your oral health. And with today’s anesthetics, you’ll not feel pain.
First, your dentist anesthetizes the area and removes the infected tissues. Then we clean the canal to promote health and seal it with a temporary filling. At a future appointment, you come in for a tooth-colored filling or a dental crown to restore function to the treated tooth.
Contact Your Dentist in Jacksonville, FL
Contact our dental team today to get started if you have a toothache or if it’s time to schedule your next checkup and dental cleaning.