Every tooth has at least one root. A large molar in the back of the mouth can have up to four roots. An abscess can form at a tooth’s root, causing inflammation and pain. When this happens, our dentists clean out the canals of the affected tooth, treat the abscess, fill the canal with gutta-percha (a rubber-like material), top it off with filling, and cap the tooth with a new crown so that it won’t break.
In some more complicated cases, our doctors may refer you to an endodontist (root canal specialist).
The physical symptoms of a root problem don’t usually start until the advanced stage. This is why regular dental check-ups and x-rays are so important. Root canal repairs and saves the tooth or teeth that have become badly decayed or infected. When the pulp of the tooth, composed of blood vessels and nerves, is damaged, it needs to be removed and the inside of the tooth will be cleaned and sealed.
Usually, pain is the main indicator that something is wrong with the root of your tooth. If you have trouble doing normal activities such as drinking or eating without feeling pain, you should see the dentist as soon as you can. The dentist will examine your aching tooth to see if your blood vessels or nerves have become inflamed due to infection. If there is an infection, antibiotics will be given before the root canal is performed. Many people dread a root canal because they imagine it to be painful, however, the process of removing the damaged root is equal to filling a cavity.
