The root canal infection is a bacterial infection that occurs in the tooth. This infection can occur in the tooth pulp, which is the innermost part of the tooth, or it can occur in the tissue surrounding the tooth. A root canal infection causes pain, swelling, and other symptoms. Root canal treatment removes the infected tissue from the tooth, and the tooth is restored to health.
What is a Root Canal infection?
A root canal infection occurs when the pulp of the tooth becomes inflamed or infected due to decay, deep fillings, repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, trauma to the face and head, cracks in teeth, gum disease, and gingivitis. If the inflammation or infection persists after dental treatment, it could affect the tooth’s viability and cause pain. The symptoms to watch out for include swelling and pain in the gums around the tooth, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, and severe toothache. If root canal therapy is not performed, the infection will continue to spread, causing severe pain and eventual tooth loss.
Reasons for Root Canal Infection
A root canal infection can stem from any number of problems, from tooth decay and cavities to trauma or a crack in the tooth that has allowed bacteria to enter. If left untreated, root canal infections can lead to pain, swelling, and even the spread of the infection throughout the body. In some cases, the tooth may have to be removed to stop the infection. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with an infected root, contact our office right away so you can be evaluated and treated as soon as possible.
When a tooth is cracked or broken, it provides an opening where bacteria and food particles can get inside the teeth and cause an infection. Even the smallest crack in your enamel can allow bacteria into the pulp of the tooth, which is a soft area in the center of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels.
Because the pulp contains sensitive nerves, it is more susceptible to infection and pain when impacted by bacteria. This can lead to discomfort or even an abscessed tooth if the infection is not treated.
Other causes of root canal infections include decay that is left untreated or a chip or break that allows bacteria to enter the small opening in the enamel. Tooth decay can cause the enamel to become soft and delicate, which leaves it susceptible to damage and decay. Leaving these spots untreated can easily lead to a root canal infection.
Regardless of what causes your root canal infection, it's important to seek dental treatment right away to prevent further complications. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment so we can get you back on the road to a healthy smile!
Explain Root Canal Treatment
A root canal can be an excellent way to preserve a tooth that has been infected or deeply cracked rather than extracting it. The procedure involves removing the nerve and pulp from the tooth’s interior and then disinfecting the interior of the tooth to remove bacteria and any debris that may have gotten into the area during a cavity or crack. After the area is clean, the tooth is sealed with a rubbery resin called gutta-percha. This material reinforces the tooth and prevents it from breaking apart again. Properly performed root canals have a high success rate of preserving teeth and can be maintained just like natural teeth with brushing and flossing. Regular checkups will help your dentist monitor the area and ensure that everything is still healthy. Contact us today to set up an appointment!
To have a consultation with our dentist, Dr. Shirley Zao, please schedule an online appointment or call us at(925) 847-8790, and we will be happy to help.
