Root canal therapy is an effective method for treating infected teeth. When damage and/or decay weakens a tooth, bacteria can spread into the interior pulp chambers, causing the nerves and connective tissues within the tooth to become infected and inflamed. This can result in uncomfortable symptoms, including tooth pain, sensitivity, and even abscesses—pockets of puss that erupt around the teeth and gums. Your dentist can perform a root canal to clear away infected tissues, helping to relieve any pain while preserving as much of the natural tooth structure as possible.
Our Springfield dental team has extensive experience treating infected teeth with root canal therapy. We use advanced technology and gentle techniques to help our patients restore the health and function of their smiles.
What is a Root Canal?
Root canal therapy is generally performed when tooth decay, cracks, or cavities create an infection in the dental pulp. A root canal is often the only way to remove infected or inflamed tissue from the interior of the tooth, disinfect the pulp chamber, and save the tooth from extraction. Though popular culture often depicts root canals as unpleasant procedures, the reality is that they help restore the health of your mouth while also providing relief from the potentially painful symptoms associated with an infected tooth.
How Do You Know if You Need a Root Canal?
Common signs that you may need a root canal include:
- A chipped, cracked, or broken tooth
- Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Sharp tooth pain, especially when biting or chewing
- Persistent throbbing or aching of the teeth or gums
- Swollen and/or discolored gums
- Pimples or boils on the gums
- Bleeding, soreness, or inflammation
- Fever-like symptoms
If you are experiencing one or more of the above symptoms, it may be a sign of an infected tooth. We recommend contacting your dentist as soon as possible. Tooth decay does not resolve on its own, and leaving it untreated can allow the infection to spread, potentially compromising the health of the surrounding teeth and gums. Untreated oral infections can dramatically increase risks to overall health, as well.
How is a Root Canal Performed?
Root canals are typically performed using a local anesthetic. Your dentist will then use specialized instruments to clean and disinfect the pulp chamber, removing bacteria and inflamed tissues. Once the infection is cleared, the chamber is sterilized and sealed using a tooth-colored filling material. In many cases, a porcelain dental crown is ultimately placed to protect the remaining tooth structure from further damage or decay.
At Innovative Dental, we use our on-site CEREC® 3D milling technology to create your new crown during the same visit as your root canal. These same-day dental restorations are designed with optimal aesthetics in mind, blending in seamlessly with your surrounding teeth for the most natural appearance possible. The entire root canal treatment process typically lasts about two hours.
How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?
Root canals are generally considered a medically necessary procedure, and they are often eligible for full or partial dental insurance coverage. Our friendly and experienced team can help you review your benefits. Once one of our dentists has had the chance to assess your unique case, we can provide you with a personalized price quote—including any potential insurance coverage—so you can know what to expect. Our office accepts a number of payment and financing options to help make any out-of-pocket costs as manageable as possible.
Contact Innovative Dental
If you or a loved one are experiencing the symptoms of an infected tooth, please contact us today. A member of our team will be happy to help you schedule an appointment with one of our dentists.