Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure that is used to save a tooth that has become infected or damaged. It involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from the inside of the tooth and replacing it with a filling material. While root canals have a high success rate, sometimes the treated tooth can become re-infected, causing a range of symptoms. As a leading endodontic practice in Woodmere, NY, Long Island Endodontics is dedicated to educating patients about the importance of recognizing the symptoms of an infected root canal. In this blog post, we will discuss the signs and symptoms of an infected root canal and why it is crucial to seek treatment as soon as possible.
The Root Canal Procedure
To understand the symptoms of an infected root canal, it is essential to know how the procedure works. When a tooth becomes infected, it means that the soft tissue inside the tooth, known as the pulp, has become inflamed or infected. This can occur due to severe tooth decay, a cracked or chipped tooth, or repeated dental procedures. During a root canal, the infected pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected. The tooth is then filled and sealed to prevent further infection. In some cases, a crown may be placed on the tooth to provide additional protection.
Signs and Symptoms of an Infected Root Canal
While some patients may not experience any symptoms of an infected root canal, others may experience the following:
1. Severe Toothache
A toothache is the most common symptom of an infected root canal. The pain may be constant or come and go, and it can range from mild to severe. The toothache may also be accompanied by swelling and tenderness in the surrounding gums.
2. Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
If you have an infected root canal, you may experience increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. This can be in the form of a sharp pain or a lingering dull ache.
3. Discoloration of the Tooth
An infected root canal can cause the affected tooth to become discolored. The tooth may appear dark or yellow, indicating that the pulp inside has died.
4. Swelling and Tenderness in the Gums
As the infection spreads, you may notice swelling and tenderness in the gums around the affected tooth. This can also lead to the formation of a pimple-like bump on the gum, which is a sign of a dental abscess.
5. Bad Breath
An infected root canal can cause bad breath due to the presence of bacteria in the tooth. This bacteria can also lead to a foul taste in the mouth.
Why Prompt Treatment is Important
If left untreated, an infected root canal can lead to serious complications, such as a dental abscess, which can cause bone loss in the jaw. It can also spread to other teeth, causing further infections. In severe cases, the infection can even spread to other parts of the body, leading to serious health problems.
How to Treat an Infected Root Canal
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is crucial to seek prompt treatment from an endodontist. At Long Island Endodontics, our team of experienced and skilled endodontists will perform a thorough examination of your tooth and determine the best course of treatment. In most cases, a root canal retreatment can save the tooth and alleviate your symptoms. However, if the infection is severe, a tooth extraction may be necessary.
Contact Long Island Endodontics
An infected root canal can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms and lead to serious complications if left untreated. It is essential to recognize the signs and seek prompt treatment from a trusted endodontic practice like Long Island Endodontics. Contact us at (516) 667-1970 in Woodmere, NY. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing high-quality endodontic care and helping patients maintain healthy and pain-free smiles. Don’t let an infected root canal go untreated, contact us today for a consultation.
