What Can A Root Canal Do For My Teeth?

If you’re like most people, just the thought of a root canal makes you uncomfortable. Thanks to sweeping advances in dentistry and technology, however, modern root canals are extremely common and virtually painless. What’s more, having a root canal can provide much-needed relief from your symptoms and prevent more serious complications. Esteemed dentist and endodontic expert Dr. Matthew Ward is committed to helping patients feel better as soon as possible with root canal treatment at Bay City Dental Center in Bay City, MI. Find out more about the benefits of a root canal here.

What is a root canal?

A root canal is an endodontic procedure designed to remove the pulp of a tooth when an infection cannot be treated by more conservative methods.

Does a root canal hurt?

During a root canal with Dr. Ward, Saginaw, Midland, and Bay City. MI area patients will be given local anesthesia to completely numb the tooth and surrounding area. Patients can relax during the treatment and will not feel any pain or discomfort. To begin, Dr. Ward drills a hole in the top layer of the tooth, allowing him to access the infected pulp. Once all of the pulp has been removed, Dr. Ward thoroughly cleans out the inside of the tooth before filling it with a specialized material. Finally, the hole is filled, sealed, and covered with a temporary crown or filling. Patients can expect to feel better almost immediately after their root canal treatment. At a subsequent appointment, Dr. Ward will fit patients with a permanent crown.

How do I know if I need a root canal?

The most definitive way to tell if you need a root canal is to be evaluated by a qualified and experienced dental provider, who will perform an examination and any necessary imaging studies. In the meantime, there are some classic signs and symptoms that may mean you will need a root canal. These include:

• Tooth pain
• Increased pressure and pain while bending, stooping, exercising, or sleeping
• Temperature sensitivity (hot and/or cold)
• Dark, discolored, tender, or swollen gums
• Fistula (bumps) on the gums
• Tooth abscess (requires an x-ray)
• Cracked or damaged tooth

Will a root canal help me?

If it’s confirmed that you need a root canal, the treatment will almost certainly help relieve your painful symptoms. Not only that, but a root canal is often necessary to prevent the further spread of infection or abscess, which could ultimately lead to the need for tooth extraction or even surgery. After healing from your root canal, which may take about one week, you’ll finally be able to eat, chew, laugh, talk, and sleep without pain!

Say goodbye to dental pain with an advanced root canal in Bay City, MI

The pain of a dental infection or abscess can be debilitating and interfere with virtually every aspect of your life. If you are ready to be free from pain and restore your oral health with a root canal, call the knowledgeable team at Bay City Dental Center to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Bay City root canal expert Dr. Matthew Ward today!