A root canal might seem intimidating, but it’s a common procedure that can save you from the throbbing pain of a toothache and prevent severe dental problems down the road. Have you been experiencing a persistent toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, or discomfort when chewing? These could be signs that you need a root canal. This dental procedure, also known as root canal therapy, involves removing the infected pulp within a tooth, thereby relieving pain and preventing further infection.
Pushing off professional help is not advisable when it comes to dental health—the sooner you address these issues, the better chance you have to save your tooth and protect your overall oral health. If you’re searching for a root canal in Columbia, MD, then you’re in luck. Columbia Smiles, located on the northeast corner of Governor Warfield Parkway and Little Patuxent Parkway, is here to help. Call 410.690.4855 today to schedule an appointment.
Signs You Need a Root Canal
Unexplained, severe toothache is one of the main signs that you may need a root canal. This pain may intensify when you’re eating or applying pressure to the area, and it could linger even after you have removed the source of the pain. If you’re experiencing a persistent, dull ache or a sharp, acute pain, don’t ignore these symptoms. A prolonged toothache is a red flag that something isn’t right with your dental health.
Some other signs that you may require a root canal include:
- Increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the affected tooth
- Discoloration or darkening of the tooth
- Pimple-like bumps on the gums
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek dental care promptly. The sooner a dental professional can treat your symptoms, the better your chances of preserving your natural tooth and preventing further complications. Root canal therapy in Columbia, MD, from Columbia Smiles can quickly relieve pain and prevent any problems in the future.
Do Root Canals Hurt?
One persistent myth surrounding root canals is the idea that the procedure is painful. However, modern root canal treatments are typically no more painful than getting a filling. Advanced techniques and local anesthesia ensure the procedure is as pain-free as possible.
The root canal procedure is straightforward and precise. After administering local anesthesia to numb the area, your endodontist will create a small opening in the crown of the tooth to access the infected pulp. The infected pulp is then carefully removed, and the root canal is cleaned and disinfected. Once clean, the canal is filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha to seal it off and prevent further infection. Finally, the opening is sealed with a temporary filling, which will be replaced with a permanent crown, by your dentist, at a later appointment.
Afterwards, it’s normal to experience some tenderness in the area for a few days as your mouth heals. Pain can be controlled with over-the-counter painkillers, and most people can return to their normal activities the next day. Remember, the purpose of a root canal is to eliminate pain caused by infection or inflammation in your tooth.
Why You Should Never Put Off a Root Canal
Putting off a root canal can lead to serious dental issues later. The pain and discomfort you’re experiencing are symptoms of an underlying problem, usually an infection or inflammation in the tooth pulp. If left untreated, the infection could spread, leading to an abscess or even systemic infection. You could also end up losing the tooth altogether, which would require further dental work, such as a bridge or an implant, to replace the lost tooth.
Call Columbia Smiles Today for a Root Canal Consultation in Columbia, MD
Don’t let a root canal become an emergency. The team at Columbia Smiles, led by Dr. Michael Hsu, provides compassionate, patient-centered care to address your dental needs. If you’re experiencing tooth pain and believe you may need a root canal in Columbia, MD, give us a call today at 410.690.4855 or reach out to us online to schedule an appointment.
