How Painful is a Root Canal on an Infected Tooth?

Are you experiencing severe tooth pain and wondering if you need a root canal? At Buford Family Dental, we understand your concerns. A root canal on an infected tooth can sound intimidating, but it’s actually a common and relatively comfortable procedure. You might be surprised to learn that the infection itself is often more painful than the treatment. In this article, we’ll walk you through what to expect during a root canal and how it can provide much-needed relief. Whether you’re in Buford, Sugarhill, Suwanee, or Atlanta, our experienced team is here to answer your questions and provide top-notch dental care.

What Causes Tooth Pain and Infection

When you’re experiencing tooth pain or dealing with an infection, understanding the root causes can help you address the issue more effectively. Let’s explore some common culprits behind these dental woes.

Decay and Cavities

You might be surprised to learn that tooth decay is one of the most prevalent causes of dental pain and infection. When bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars and starches, they produce acid that erodes your tooth enamel. This erosion can lead to cavities, which, if left untreated, can progress deeper into the tooth, causing pain and potentially infection.

Gum Disease

Your gums play a crucial role in protecting your teeth. When plaque and tartar build up along your gum line, it can lead to gingivitis or more severe periodontal disease. As these conditions progress, you may experience swollen, bleeding gums and tooth pain. In advanced stages, the infection can spread to the bone supporting your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.

Cracked or Chipped Teeth

Have you ever bitten down on something hard and felt a sharp pain? You might have cracked or chipped a tooth. These dental injuries can expose the sensitive inner layers of your tooth, leading to pain and increasing your risk of infection. Even small cracks can allow bacteria to enter, potentially causing an abscess if left untreated.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

As your wisdom teeth emerge, they can sometimes become impacted, meaning they don’t have enough room to grow properly. This can cause pain, swelling, and even infection in the surrounding gum tissue. If you’re experiencing discomfort in the back of your mouth, especially in your late teens or early twenties, impacted wisdom teeth could be the culprit.

Root Canal Infections

Sometimes, the pain you’re feeling might be coming from deep within your tooth. When bacteria reach the pulp – the soft tissue inside your tooth containing nerves and blood vessels – it can lead to a painful infection. This often requires a root canal procedure to save the tooth and alleviate your discomfort.

Remember, tooth pain and infections don’t typically resolve on their own. If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort or signs of infection, it’s crucial to seek professional dental care. At Buford Family Dental, we’re here to help diagnose and treat your dental issues, ensuring your smile stays healthy and pain-free.

Root Canal Procedures and Post-Op Care at Buford Family Dental

At Buford Family Dental, we understand that the prospect of a root canal can be daunting. However, our expert team is committed to making your experience as comfortable and pain-free as possible. Let’s walk you through what you can expect during your root canal procedure and the essential post-operative care.

The Root Canal Procedure

When you arrive at our Buford office, you’ll be greeted by our friendly staff who will ensure you’re comfortable and prepared for the procedure. Our skilled dentists use state-of-the-art technology to perform root canals with precision and care.

During the procedure, you’ll receive local anesthesia to numb the area around the affected tooth. This ensures you won’t feel any pain during the treatment. Your dentist will then create a small opening in the tooth to access the infected pulp. Using specialized instruments, they’ll carefully remove the damaged tissue and clean the root canals.

Once cleaned, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent future infection. In most cases, a temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth until your permanent crown is ready.

Post-Operative Care

After your root canal at Buford Family Dental, proper care is crucial for a smooth recovery. Here are some guidelines to follow:

• Avoid eating until the numbness wears off to prevent accidentally biting your cheek or tongue.
• Take any prescribed medications as directed by your dentist.
• Stick to soft foods for the first few days and gradually introduce harder foods as comfort allows.
• Maintain good oral hygiene by gently brushing and flossing, being careful around the treated area.

It’s normal to experience some sensitivity or discomfort for a few days following the procedure. However, if you experience severe pain or swelling, don’t hesitate to contact our office immediately.

Follow-Up Appointments

Your journey doesn’t end with the root canal procedure. We’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to check your healing progress and place a permanent crown if necessary. This final step protects your treated tooth and restores its full functionality.

At Buford Family Dental, we’re committed to providing comprehensive care throughout your root canal treatment and beyond. Our team is always available to address any concerns you may have during your recovery period.

Remember, a root canal is a tooth-saving procedure that can alleviate pain and preserve your natural smile. With our expert care and your diligent post-op attention, you’ll be back to enjoying your favorite foods and showing off your healthy smile in no time.

Are you looking for a dentist in Buford? Request an appointment here: Schedule Appointment or call Buford Family Dental at 678-730-2005 . We also serve neighboring towns including Sugar Hill, Suwanee, Cumming, Flowery Branch, Lawrenceville, Oakwood, Braselton and Duluth.