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Your tooth is made up of three main components: a hard protective shell called enamel, a softer middle layer called dentin and a soft tissue inner layer called dental pulp.  If your layer of dental pulp is significantly traumatized, your tooth begins to slowly die, requiring the need for root canal therapy to prevent or eliminate infection and tooth loss. 

Root canal therapy involves disinfecting and cleansing your tooth and removing debris from the coronal pulp chamber and canals associated with it.  Once your affected tooth’s canals are cleaned and shaped, they are filled with materials to prevent pain and infection from recurring.

After your root canal therapy, you should not chew or bite on the treated tooth until you have had it fully restored by your dentist.  Proper oral hygiene is essential in maintaining your newly restored tooth.  Make sure you maintain regular brushing, flossing and check-ups with your dentist.

Signs You May Need Root Canal Therapy

If you exhibit pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of your tooth and swelling or tenderness in your gums, you may need root canal therapy as these signs point to an infection.  Sometimes, there are no symptoms present when your tooth is infected.  That’s why regular visits to your dentist are critical to preventing and detecting dental problems in their earliest stages. 

In other circumstances, signs that you may need a root canal include, but are not limited to:

• Severe tooth pain upon chewing or application of pressure
• Prolonged sensitivity and pain to hot or cold temperatures
• Discoloration of the tooth
• Swelling and tenderness in nearby gums
• A persistent or recurring pimple on the gums

In the days following the procedure, the tooth may feel sensitive due to the natural tissue inflammation.  This is seen, especially, if pain or infection were present before the procedure.  Until your root canal is completely finished, it is best if you minimize the amount of chewing on the tooth to prevent further damage and pain.  Root canal therapy is proven to be highly successful and the treated teeth can last a lifetime.

If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort with your teeth, discuss your treatment options with your Dr. Gregory A. Stiver by scheduling an appointment at (816) 533-7393.  He can give you more information on root canals in Kansas City and advise you on whether it can help stop your pain and treat the infection.