We’ve all been there—an unbearable toothache that strikes at the worst possible moment. If you’ve ever suffered from the pain of an infected tooth, you know how it can disrupt your daily life and even keep you up at night. But don’t worry—at Shree Dental, we offer effective treatments that can bring relief and save your natural tooth.
What Exactly Is a Tooth Infection?
A tooth infection happens when bacteria manage to invade the inner layers of your tooth, causing pain and swelling. To better understand this, it helps to know the parts of a tooth:
- Enamel: The tough outer shell that protects your tooth. Infection here can cause dark spots or sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
- Dentin: Just beneath the enamel, this layer is more sensitive. Infection can lead to bigger discolored patches and pain when chewing.
- Pulp: The core of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. Infection reaching the pulp can result in severe pain, gum swelling, facial swelling, pus, trouble sleeping, and headaches.
When Should You See a Dentist?
If you notice symptoms like intense pain, swelling, or discolouration affecting the deeper layers of your tooth, it’s time for a dental visit. Early attention can save your tooth and prevent more serious issues. Your dentist will examine the tooth and likely take X-rays to determine how far the infection has spread.
Root Canal Treatment vs. Tooth Extraction: Making the Right Choice
When an infection reaches the pulp, you generally have two options:
- Tooth Extraction: Removing the tooth completely stops the infection but leaves a gap that might affect chewing, speaking, and the alignment of surrounding teeth. Plus, replacements like implants or bridges can be costly and require recovery time.
- Root Canal Treatment (RCT): This procedure allows you to save your natural tooth by removing the infection inside the root canals. RCT is typically pain-free, involves minimal lifestyle restrictions afterward, and lets you return to normal activities quickly. It’s often more affordable and provides lasting benefits by preserving your natural bite and preventing nearby teeth from shifting.
What Happens During a Root Canal Procedure?
RCT usually takes one to three dental visits. Here’s what to expect:
- Cleaning Out the Infection: The dentist will numb the area and use special files to remove infected tissue and bacteria from inside your tooth’s canals. Antimicrobial solutions will be applied to ensure thorough cleaning.
- Shaping and Preparing the Canals: After cleaning, the canals are carefully shaped and widened to create space for the final filling and to prevent any leftover infection.
- Filling and Sealing: The dentist fills the canals with a biocompatible material that seals the space, protecting the tooth from new infections and providing structural support.
If more than one visit is needed, a temporary filling will be placed between appointments, and medications such as antibiotics or painkillers may be prescribed.
Aftercare: What to Expect Following RCT
Depending on the remaining tooth structure, your dentist might suggest:
- A simple filling if enough of your tooth remains.
- A dental crown (cap) to protect and strengthen the tooth, especially if a large tooth portion is missing.
- Sometimes, an urgent crown placement may be needed within a couple of weeks after RCT.
Common Root Canal Myths: Busted!
- Myth: “Root canals are painful.”
Fact: With today’s technology and anesthesia, RCT is typically painless and comfortable.
- Myth: “Extracting a tooth is better than a root canal.”
Fact: Saving your tooth with RCT avoids problems like bone loss and shifting teeth that can come from extraction—and it’s generally more cost-effective.
- Myth: “The infection can come back after RCT.”
Fact: When performed correctly and followed by proper restoration, the risk of reinfection is very low.
Your Smile Matters: Take Action Early!
Root canal treatment is a safe, effective way to battle tooth infection while preserving your natural smile. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, swelling, or sensitivity, don’t wait—schedule a visit at Shree Dental. The sooner you act, the better the outcome.
Our expert team is ready to guide you through treatment and help you get back to enjoying life with a healthy, pain-free smile.
Thank you for trusting Shree Dental with your oral health!