Root canal infections can cause severe pain and discomfort, and it is important to identify the signs and symptoms of an infection in order to seek treatment as soon as possible. Pain is the main symptom that pushes people to seek dental care when faced with a root canal infection. The pain intensifies when you bite or press on the affected tooth, and you may experience tooth sensitivity when you eat hot or cold food and drinks. Swelling that's higher than normal, higher-than-normal sensitivity to expected, and continuous pain that doesn't stop and worsens when they bite are all warning signs of an infected root canal.
In addition, a tooth abscess can occur when bacteria and dying pulp create deep pus-filled pockets around the root of the tooth. This causes severe discomfort and bad breath, and is visible through an enlarged or persistent red bump or pimple on the gum. Patients who suffer from a root canal infection often have chronic bad breath, and if bad breath is persistent despite brushing your teeth, flossing, and using dental soaps, there's likely an infection. If the pimple on your gums remains longer than 7 to 10 days after the procedure, you may have an infection or gum disease.
If this is your case, you should contact your dentist or periodontist immediately. If you experience any of these symptoms after an endodontic procedure, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist right away. The sooner you identify the signs and treat the infection, the lower the risk of dental complications. During the endodontic procedure, the necrotic or dying pulp will be removed and the space will be filled with guttapercha in order to save the tooth.
The American Dental Association (ADA), the American Association of Endodontists (AAE) and the American Association for Dental Research (AADR) have published public statements warning that false statements about root canals spread dangerous misinformation and may harm people who avoid getting root canals because of them. Root canal therapy is a useful procedure that can be performed to destroy the infection and restore the tooth. According to the American Association of Endodontists, more than 15 million root canals are performed each year in the United States alone. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or think you may have a root canal infection, contact your dentist in Houston for more information. Call us at 281-866-0442 and schedule an appointment with Champions Dental for a professional consultation.
