There are several reasons why someone might be recommended to have a root canal procedure, including:

• An infection has reached the nerve of your tooth
• You have extensive decay or a deep cavity that can’t be filled
• You have a badly cracked or broken tooth
• You have had repeated fillings on the same tooth

The pulp within your tooth needs to be removed because it can break down and cause bacteria to multiply within the pulp chamber. This bacteria or decay can cause an infection or abscessed tooth, which is a pus-filled pocket that forms at the end of the roots of the tooth. An abscess forms when the infection spreads past the ends of the roots of the tooth. In addition to an abscess, an infection in the root canal of a tooth can cause:

• Swelling that may spread to other areas of your neck, face, or head
• Bone loss around the tip of the root
• Drainage problems extending externally from the root

Sometimes, there aren’t any signs present indicating you need a root canal. Having any of the following signs or symptoms could mean you need a root canal:

• Severe toothache pain when eating or applying pressure
• Prolonged sensitivity and pain to hot and cold temperatures
• Discoloration or darkening of the tooth
• Gums swelling and tender
• A persistent or recurring pimple on the gums

Dr. Matthew Cavendish will begin by using local anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding gums. He then creates a small hole in your tooth to access the pulp and canal. The infected pulp is gently and carefully removed. Laser dentistry treatments help sanitize the canal.

During your second appointment, the space left behind by the removed pulp is filled with a material known as gutta-percha. The material is heated slightly, so it expands and fills the space completely. Finally, the tooth is sealed by an inlay, onlay, or dental crown. When the procedure is complete, your tooth will be healthy and pain-free.

During the first few days following your root canal procedure, your tooth may be sensitive due to natural tissue inflammation, especially if you experienced pain before the procedure. You can control this pain by taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol or Motrin, and most patients find they can resume their normal activities the next day.

It’s important to minimize chewing on the tooth that’s under repair if you’re in between your two root canal appointments. This will help keep the tooth from becoming reinfected or breaking until it can be fully restored. ­You should also continue good oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing as you would regularly.

There are several things you can do to avoid tooth decay that may lead to needing a root canal, including:

• Maintain great oral hygiene habits every day
• Floss every day
• Avoid eating foods high in sugar
• Avoid drinking acidic beverages like soda and juice
• Visit your dentist regularly (at least once per year)
• Wear a custom-made mouthguard if you play sports