When the word, “Root Canal,” is uttered most
people shudder with fear, but according to the Best Dentist in Chicago, root canals
sound much worse than they actually are.
A root canal, also called endodontic therapy
or root canal therapy, is something that becomes necessary if a cavity becomes
too large for a filling and the decay travels all the way down to the pulp of
the tooth. This usually occurs when people neglect their teeth and let things
go a little bit too far. Other possible causes for root canal therapy include
tooth trauma and nerve damage.
Once the pulp of your tooth becomes damaged,
your Chicago Dentist may recommend a root canal. If left untreated a dangerous
and painful abscess could form. Abscesses are dangerous because the infection
can spread to your jawbone, or other parts of your body.
If the abscess is allowed to spread through
your blood vessels, it could lead to a brain abscess, which could send you straight
to the hospital. Tooth abscesses can also affect your sinuses. If the dental
abscess reaches your heart, you could be asking for trouble as it could lead to
bacterial endocarditis. All of these issues are serious, but quite possibly the
most dangerous is a condition called Ludwig’s Angina. This potentially deadly
infection affects the lower jaw and face. If this happens, it is imperative
that you see your Chicago Dentist immediately as Ludwig’s Angina can cause
suffocation and even death.
You might need a root canal if you suffer
from:
- Throbbing pain when you chew
- Red and swollen gums
- A horrible, sometimes salty taste
- Swelling
- Fever
- A bump in your mouth that is red or swollen
- A tooth that is sore and tender when touched
Over time, that infection will spread and if
you do not schedule an appointment with your dentist, your jawbone
could eventually dissolve. If this occurs, it may be necessary to remove the
tooth.
In order to determine if a root canal is
necessary your dentist will look for signs of infection. Dr. Romo may also
tap your tooth or apply cold or heat to check for infection or abscess.
If an abscess is indicated treatment will
begin as soon as possible with Dr. Romo giving you antibiotics in order to kill
the infection. Depending on the severity of the situation your Dentist in
Chicago may perform a root canal or extract the tooth.