If a tooth becomes infected, then treatment is necessary to preserve it and prevent tooth loss. To protect your smile, we offer a safe and conservative treatment option: root canal therapy. Find out how a root canal could restore a tooth in Greenville, TX, in just one visit. We’re also going to talk about steps for preventing infections and decay.
The Warning Signs of an Infected Tooth
How do you know if you have an infected tooth? Since they occur as a result of untreated decay, patients may report tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks, or a toothache that won’t go away. As the issue progresses, pain when eating may develop, as well as an unexplained fever, headaches, or swelling near the tooth. People with an infected tooth may also report a poor tasting discharge from the tooth itself. Don’t ignore these warning signs, please see us right away so we can offer treatment before the tooth requires extraction or spreads infection.
Repairing Your Tooth in One Visit
The procedure begins with the team administering a local anesthetic or possibly dental sedation. Next, we open the tooth in order to remove the infected tissue within. After we remove the infected tissue, we clean the inside of the tooth and add a restorative filling material. Once we cure the material, we then place a custom-made dental crown. The crown ensures the tooth looks healthy, while also protecting the tooth against further decay. The entire procedure only takes one visit to complete, and helps you enjoy a healthy and whole smile once more.
Preventing Future Infections
What can be done to avoid future infections? First, be sure you see your dentist every six months. During our checkups, we look for signs of trouble and often identify cavities before patients even experience discomfort. We also clean the teeth, removing the plaque and tartar that could increase the risk of a cavity or infection. At home, you should always brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes each session, followed up by flossing every night before going to sleep. These steps help safeguard the smile from cavities and infections, ensuring a healthy and whole smile. If you have any questions about our approach to root canal therapy, or if you have pain in one or more of your teeth, then let us know!
Does Your Tooth Hurt?
Pain and sensitivity could indicate the presence of cavities or possibly even an infected tooth. To learn more about restoring the health, beauty, and function of a tooth, schedule a consultation with Smith Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX call us at 903-455-5750. We proudly serve patients from Hunt County, Greenville, Royce City, Sulphur Springs, and all surrounding communities.