Your teeth are the strongest substance in your body. They also see a substantial amount of daily use. They are essential for biting, chewing, speaking, and supporting a beautiful smile. Even though they are incredibly strong, they can still be faced with issues that can compromise their strength. At Sunrise Dental, we can treat tooth infections with root canal therapy.
How Do I Get a Tooth Infection?
Despite looking simple from the outside, your teeth consist of several layers. The outermost layer, or enamel, is the only layer that you usually see. This layer is the hardest substance in your body and is incredibly strong. Under the enamel is the dentin, a strong layer, though not as strong as your enamel. In the center of your tooth is a hollow chamber that houses the nerve and blood supply of the tooth also known as the pulp.
While the enamel is incredibly strong, issues such as physical trauma and cavities, can leave the inner layers exposed to bacteria. The bacteria can enter into the dentin and if the cavity is not treated, the bacteria make their way to the pulp/nerve of the tooth. From there, the bacteria begin to attack the pulp of the affected tooth, leading to inflammation, severe pain and ultimately an infection or abscess of the tooth. The abscess will destroy bone at the tip of the root of the tooth. The longer the infection goes untreated, the larger the abscess grows. It is even at risk to rupture, which can then allow bacteria into your bloodstream, where it can contribute to serious health complications.
How Do I Know if I Have an Infection?
A painful toothache is only one symptom of a tooth infection. Other symptoms include
- Facial pain and swelling.
- A bad taste in your mouth that just does not seem to want to go away.
- A “pimple-like” bump above a tooth.
Providing Treatment with Root Canal Therapy
When you notice any symptoms of a tooth infection, it is essential that you schedule an appointment right away. We will perform a thorough exam, complete with dental X-rays, which enable us to determine the presence of an infection. If an infection is confirmed and the tooth is restorable, Sunrise Dental, dentistry Peoria AZ recommends root canal therapy.
A root canal allows you to save your tooth. Only the infected pulp is removed. The infected nerve and blood supply are removed with small specialized tools. The canal is cleaned and sterilized. Then, the canal is sealed with a rubber-like material.
Finally, a crown is placed on the tooth, which prevents a new infection from occurring and restores the strength of the tooth so that it can function normally once again.
With a root canal, we can eliminate a painful, dangerous infection, preventing serious consequences and restoring your oral health. For more information, and to schedule your consultation, call Sunrise Dental at 623-487-4870 today.