Can Root Canal Therapy Relieve My Tooth Pain?

Pain is always a sign that something is wrong inside the body. Tooth pain, in particular, can be quite uncomfortable, and if it is left untreated, it often leads to tooth loss. However, a reliable alternative to dental extraction is root canal therapy. Performed in just two visits to Heritage Dental Associates in Fayetteville, GA, a root canal treatment may preserve a tooth indefinitely. At our office, dentist Dr. Jeff Kendrick performs scores of root canal treatments, relieving pain and saving smiles—read on to learn how!

What is root canal therapy?

Root canal therapy also is called endodontic therapy. It is an in-office procedure which removes interior dental pulp damaged by:

• Oral trauma (a deep crack)
• Multiple restorations such as fillings
• A dental abscess, or infection
• Deep decay

Dr. Kendrick confirms the need for root canal therapy with an oral examination and X-rays, after which he anesthetizes the tooth with numbing medication. He opens the first of multiple canals, cleans it out with specialized tools, and finally disinfects it with medication.
To seal the canal, he adds gutta-percha, a rubbery material which also strengthens the canal. The dentist repeats the process on all canals and fits the tooth with a temporary restoration. After the tooth heals, you'll return to the office for installation of a permanent crown.
Although this might all sound intimidating, rest assured that the process is non-invasive and will be pain-free. In fact, patients say that root canal therapy is no more difficult than getting a filling or crown. Furthermore, this predictable treatment relieves the pain and pressure of infected and damaged teeth. Thanks to a root canal, you'll feel back to normal in no time!

Signs that you need root canal therapy

There are many warning signs which can tell you and your dentist that your tooth is in trouble. They include:

• Throbbing toothache
• Dental sensitivity to cold, heat, sugar, and pressure
• Enamel discoloration
• Drainage
• Pus at the gum line
• An obvious chip or crack
• Lost restoration, such as a filling or crown
• Bad breath which does not resolve with mouthwash or brushing your teeth

Unfortunately, a compromised tooth may show no symptoms whatsoever. That's why your dentist asks you to come to Heritage Dental Associates twice a year for cleanings and examinations. The American Dental Association makes the same recommendation. In other words, preventive dental services keep your smile bright, healthy, and long-lasting by detecting dental problems before they spiral out of control.

Find out more
Root canal therapy can preserve an ailing tooth for a lifetime, as well as relieve pain and other worrisome symptoms. If you think you have a sick tooth, please contact Heritage Dental Associates right away for an appointment with Dr. Jeff Kendrick. He'll get you into the office for an examination and can complete a root canal therapy as needed, quickly and painlessly. Call (509) 924-7600 today to set up an appointment!