Root Canal Therapy in Jackson, MI | Endodontics
Dentistry advances techniques and procedures designed to restore a patient’s oral health and prevent tooth loss. In Jackson, MI, Root canal therapy is a treatment for patients at risk of losing one or more teeth to decay, disease, or injury. Our dentist near you will perform a root canal to restore your tooth health and prevent further oral health complications. Summit Pointe Dental has solutions if you are at risk of tooth loss.
Importance of Preventing Tooth Loss
Some patients may think that extracting a tooth is better than undergoing root canal therapy. However, it’s best to preserve a tooth to remain intact in the mouth when possible. Preventing tooth loss helps patients avoid shifting other teeth in the mouth to fill the tooth gap. In addition, preserving teeth will reduce the risk of any compromised oral function, such as eating and speaking.
Importance of Root Canal Therapy
One of the first indications that a patient has a tooth in need of root canal therapy is serious tooth pain that does not let up. Other signs include heightened tooth sensitivity, discoloration, and problems in the surrounding gum tissue. If patients show any of these symptoms, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mark McFerran to determine the source of the problem. If our dentist in Jackson, MI, recommends root canal therapy as a restorative measure, it’s important to schedule the procedure as soon as possible to avoid a worsening situation.
Our dental care team will explain the process of root canal therapy. Essentially, the inner soft tissue, or pulp, is removed from the tooth, which allows for a full cleaning of the inside of the tooth and its roots. This effectively removes bacteria and clears the infection to preserve and restore the tooth to health.
If you are suffering from intense and unrelenting tooth pain, root canal therapy near you may be the solution to restore your well-being. For more information, contact Dr. Mark McFerran at Summit Pointe Dental. Our professional team looks forward to getting you back to oral health.
FAQs
A root canal treatment eliminates infected or damaged tissue from inside a tooth. It involves cleaning, disinfecting, and sealing the tooth to save it and prevent further infection. This procedure helps relieve pain and restores the tooth's function without needing an extraction.
To avoid a root canal, maintain good oral hygiene by brushing (2 times) daily, flossing (1 time) regularly, and visiting your dentist for check-ups and cleanings. Avoid sugary foods and drinks, and address any cavities or tooth issues early before they progress into more serious infections.
To ease throbbing pain after a root canal, use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, follow your dentist's aftercare instructions, and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. If the pain remains or worsens, contact your dentist, as it may need further evaluation.
A tooth with severe infection or damage typically won't last long without a root canal. It can lead to abscesses, severe pain, and further complications, potentially requiring extraction. Early treatment is key to saving the tooth and avoiding more extensive dental procedures.
Recovery from a root canal generally takes a few days. Most discomfort subsides within 24 to 48 hours. Following aftercare instructions, including eating soft foods and avoiding hard chewing, helps ensure a smooth recovery and a quick return to normal activities.
After a root canal, eat soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, applesauce, and smoothies. Avoid hot, hard, or crunchy foods for a few days to prevent irritation or damage to the treated area. Gradually reintroduce your regular diet as your comfort improves.
Pain in a root canal-treated tooth after years may indicate reinfection, a crack, or issues with the surrounding gum tissue. If you experience pain, it's important to see your dentist promptly to assess the tooth and determine the appropriate treatment.
A root canal is required when the tooth's pulp becomes infected or inflamed due to serious decay, cracks, or trauma. Symptoms include severe toothache, prolonged sensitivity, swelling, or abscesses. Your dentist will do an assessment of the tooth and advise a root canal if necessary.
A root canal is done by first numbing the area, then removing the infected pulp from the tooth. The inside of the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and filled with a special material. Finally, the tooth is sealed, and often, a crown is placed to protect it.
A root canal typically requires appointments one or two times, depending on the tooth's condition and complexity. The first visit involves cleaning and disinfecting the tooth, and the second visit, if needed, completes the sealing and restoration with a filling or crown.
A root canal is required when the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected or damaged due to decay, injury, or trauma. Symptoms like severe pain, sensitivity, or abscesses usually indicate the need for this procedure to save the tooth and eliminate infection.
During a root canal, the dentist eliminates infected or damaged tissue from inside the tooth, cleans and sterilizes the area, and fills it with a biocompatible material. The tooth is then sealed and restored, often with a crown, to ensure full functionality and prevent future infection.
After a root canal, avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it is fully restored. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy (sticky) foods that may damage the tooth or temporary filling. Follow your dentist's instructions, maintain good oral hygiene, and attend follow-up appointments for optimal healing.
Root canals are not painful as they are done under local anesthesia, which makes the tooth numb. Most patients feel only mild discomfort during and after the procedure, similar to having a filling. Any post-treatment pain can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
You may need a root canal if you experience severe tooth pain, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling around the tooth, or a persistent bump on the gums. Your dentist can confirm the need for a root canal through a dental exam and X-rays.
Most patients feel normal within a few days after a root canal. Mild discomfort or sensitivity is common for a day or two, but it should gradually improve. Following aftercare instructions and avoiding hard foods helps speed up recovery.
If a root canal isn't an option or preferred, extraction is the alternative. Once the tooth is eliminated, it can be replaced with an implant, bridge, or partial denture to restore function and appearance. Your dentist will talk about the best pick for your situation.