What signs and symptoms tell you that endodontic (root canal) treatment is needed?

Endodontic (Root Canal) treatment is needed for two main reasons.

1. Infection - untreated cavities are a common cause of tooth pulp infection. The decay erodes the enamel and dentin of the tooth until it reaches a root canal. This allows bacteria to infiltrate the area and infect the pulp. Since antibiotics cannot reach the inside of the tooth to treat the infection, the inflammation caused by the infection reduces the blood supply to the tooth and the reduced blood supply prevents the pulp from healing.

2. Damage - The second reason for root canal therapy is physical damage to the pulp that cannot be repaired. Dental trauma or a fractured tooth can cause damage the pulp. In addition, extensive restoration, such as several fillings placed in the same tooth over an extended period of time, can cause pulp damage. In rare instances, routine dental procedures, such as preparing a tooth for a crown, can damage the pulp resulting in the need for root canal therapy.

If you have an infection of the pulp, you may not feel any pain initially, but if left untreated, the infection will progress and begin to cause pain and swelling and in some cases, an abscess will form.

You may need a root canal if:

• Your tooth hurts when you bite down, touch it or push on it
• Your tooth is sensitive to heat
• Your tooth is sensitive to cold for more than a couple of seconds
• There is swelling near the tooth
• Your tooth is discolored (whether pain is present or not)
• Your tooth is broken

For more information on Endodontics in North Chicago, IL or Root Canal Therapy in Lake County IL, please contact Den-Care Smile Center today at 1-800-DENCARE