If you have a deep tooth infection that has caused nerve inflammation and severe pain, we may need to perform root canal therapy in Clearwater, FL, to resolve the problem. In this procedure, your dentist opens up your tooth to access the pulp. If this pulp is infected, he uses a precision tool to gently remove all infected tissue, even into your tooth roots. Then, he seals your inner tooth to protect it from future problems and will restore it with a tooth filling or dental crown later.
How Does The Root Canal Procedure Work?
Immediately after treatment, your gums will be numb, but when the numbness wears off, you may feel some soreness that diminishes within a day or two. You may use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) if those are safe for you to alleviate any soreness.
About two weeks after the primary procedure, you will return to our Clearwater dental office for your final restoration. Dr. Santos will use either a tooth-colored composite filling for smaller root canals or a dental crown. The restoration type depends on which tooth received treatment and which restoration will be the most secure over time.
Symptoms that You May Need a Root Canal
Patients in Clearwater who need root canal treatment may suffer one or more of the following:
- Severe toothache
- Extremely swollen gums
- A bump on your gums
- Sensitivity to temperature
- Jaw pain
- Sour taste in your mouth
If you have felt any of these or a combination, please call your emergency dentist immediately for same-day dental care.
