Root canal treatment is often the best (or only) way to deal with an abscessed tooth that results from a tooth infection. This review discusses the role root canal treatment plays in treating an abscessed tooth and what you can expect throughout the diagnostic and treatment processes.
An abscessed tooth can affect one’s ability to function daily. The good news is that a root canal treatment can often save the tooth and alleviate the discomforting symptoms.
An abscessed tooth is a pocket of pus that forms in the root of a tooth as a result of a bacterial infection. There are many reasons why a tooth infection and subsequent abscessed tooth may develop. Some of the more common causes are:
Any incident that exposes the tooth’s root could lead to an abscessed tooth. Treatment for an abscessed tooth involves killing the bacteria inside of the tooth and draining the dental abscess.
The symptoms can vary based upon the severity of the dental abscess. There may also be symptoms related to the infection or tooth damage that caused the abscess to form. The most notable symptoms of a dental abscess are:
A dental abscess results from an infection. The bacteria that cause it can put off a foul-smelling odor as well as affect the person’s general health, causing bad breath and fever. Pain, swelling, and sensitivity of the teeth, gums, and jaw are common as well.
An abscessed tooth will not go away on its own. In addition, antibiotics are not usually enough to treat dental abscesses. Consequently, in most cases, root canal treatment is the best way to deal with a dental abscess. If left untreated, then the patient risks prolonged discomfort, the risk of the infection spreading, and potential loss of the tooth.
Root canal treatment for an abscessed tooth involves accessing the root of the tooth, draining the abscess, disinfecting the tooth’s root with antibiotics, and filling the tooth. The tooth is then sealed, and the last step is to place a dental crown over it for added protection. The procedure is typically short and safe with minimal risks. However, the patient does need to plan for a recovery period that can take several days. Complications after a root canal treatment are rare, but it is important to keep the mouth as clean as possible during recovery.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Root Canal Treatment in Marietta, OH
Call our dental team today or send us a message to schedule a consultation to determine if the cause of your symptoms is an abscessed tooth or another underlying concern and what the best treatment approach is to alleviate the symptoms and save the tooth.
Request an appointment or call McCarthy Dentistry at 740-546-5178 for an appointment in our Marietta office.
Root canal therapy is a routine procedure often recommended by a patient's dentist to treat infected teeth. Your tooth consists of various components that preserve its function. The root canal is the hollow section of your tooth that contains blood vessels, nerve tissue, and other cells, called the pulp. Your pulp nourishes your tooth and…
You may dread the thought of having a root canal, but it may be necessary. A filling or composite bonding might address minor or moderate cavities. However, if you are experiencing severe, consistent pain in your teeth, these treatments may not be enough to restore the affected tooth. Endodontic treatment is a method where your…
When you think about a root canal, you may have thoughts of pain, discomfort, and a generally unpleasant experience. Of all the dental procedures, this one has one of the most infamous reputations. However, your dentist has the training, knowledge, and tools to correct significant decay and restore your oral health. To diagnose a tooth…
Dental implants offer more than just cosmetic benefits. They restore oral function, improving speech and chewing efficiency while preserving jawbone structure. These long-lasting solutions provide stability and durability, making them a preferred choice for patients who want to replace one or more missing teeth.Missing teeth can impact speech clarity. Gaps between the teeth may lead…
Dental implants provide a durable and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. This popular teeth replacement option can last many years with proper care, improving the function and appearance of your smile. Practices like following a good oral hygiene routine, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, and scheduling regular follow-ups can all help contribute to the overall longevity…