Do You Need a Root Canal?

Learn more about root canals and why they are performed.

Root canal treatment has gotten a pretty bad reputation over the years and now our Peoria, AZ, dentist Dr. Yati Yadav is here to debunk some of these myths and negative images surrounding this procedure. After all, it’s really no more invasive than having a tooth filled after a cavity, and it could just end up saving your tooth from needing to be extracted.

So, why is a root canal performed?

A root canal requires us to go inside the tooth, where the source of the issue lies. While decay destroys the outer layers of the tooth (known as the enamel) sometimes untreated decay or damage to the tooth can allow bacteria to enter inside the tooth where the dental pulp lies. When this happens, the pulp becomes infected. Once this occurs, the only option is for our Peoria, AZ, general dentist to perform a root canal to remove the infected pulp and the bacteria from inside the tooth.

What are the signs that you might need a root canal?

It’s important that if you are dealing with any changes or symptoms then you seek care from your dentist as soon as possible. The sooner the problem is treated the better for the health of your smile in the long run.

The most common symptom of an infected dental pulp is a toothache. The pain may be persistent or may come and go. Some toothaches may be mild (but even mild pain shouldn’t be ignored!) or severe and you may notice that the pain gets worse whenever you chew or bite down on the tooth.

You may also notice that the tooth has become sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks. The sensitivity will often linger. Along with pain and sensitivity, you may also notice that the gums surrounding the tooth are red, puffy and even tender to the touch. Sometimes a bump or growth forms on the gums (this is known as an abscess).

If you are experiencing warning signs that you might need a root canal it’s important to play it safe and visit our office as soon as possible for a checkup. Turn to Your Family Dentist in Peoria, AZ and serving Glendale, AZ, to get the care your smile needs.