Inside every tooth is the pulp, a soft tissue with nerves and blood vessels. When deep decay, a crack or a blow damages the pulp, it can become inflamed or infected, causing pain and, if untreated, an abscess. A root canal removes the damaged pulp, cleans and disinfects the inside of the root and seals it, so you can keep your tooth.
Signs you may need a root canal
- Severe or throbbing toothache, especially when chewing.
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold.
- Swelling, or a small pimple on the gum near a tooth.
- A tooth that has darkened after an injury.
Some infected teeth cause no pain at all and are found on an X-ray. Only an exam can confirm what is going on, so contact us if you notice any of these signs.
The procedure
- Diagnosis. We examine the tooth and take X-rays to see the roots and the bone around them.
- Anesthesia. The area is numbed so you are comfortable.
- Cleaning. We open the tooth, remove the damaged pulp and clean and shape the root canals.
- Sealing. The canals are filled and sealed to keep bacteria out.
- Restoration. The tooth gets a filling and, usually, a crown to protect it.
After the treatment
It is normal for the tooth to feel tender for a few days. Avoid chewing hard foods on that side until the final restoration is in place, and take any medication exactly as prescribed.
In pain and coming from the U.S.?
A toothache does not wait. Message us on WhatsApp with your symptoms. We are open Monday to Saturday, and we will tell you how soon we can see you.
