Do not ignore worsening symptoms: Persistent pain, swelling, fever or difficulty swallowing should be evaluated promptly. Seek urgent medical care for trouble breathing or rapidly spreading swelling.
Why would a tooth need root canal treatment?
Inside each tooth is soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels. Deep decay, a crack, repeated dental work or an injury can allow that tissue to become inflamed or infected. Root canal treatment removes the affected tissue, cleans the internal space and seals the tooth.
The goal is to relieve the source of the problem and preserve the natural tooth when it can be predictably restored.
Symptoms that deserve an examination
- Lingering sensitivity to heat or cold
- Pain when biting or chewing
- A chipped, cracked or darkened tooth
- Tenderness or swelling near a tooth
- A pimple-like area on the gum
- A toothache that returns or steadily worsens
What happens during treatment?
Dr. Caldwell will examine the tooth and use appropriate imaging to understand the condition of the root and surrounding bone. Local anesthetic is used to keep the area comfortable during treatment.
After the internal space is cleaned and sealed, the tooth usually needs a final restoration. Because a treated tooth may have lost significant structure, a crown is often considered to protect it during normal chewing.
Root canal or extraction?
The best choice depends on whether the tooth can be restored, the condition of its supporting tissues and how it fits the overall treatment plan. When saving the tooth is not predictable, extraction and replacement options can be discussed clearly before you decide.