Why You Might Need Root Canal Therapy in Yuma
Deep decay that reaches the pulp chamber triggers an infection that won’t heal without intervention. Bacteria multiply inside the confined space, creating pressure and severe pain that can wake you up at night or make it impossible to focus during the day.
Trauma to a tooth can damage the pulp even without visible cracks. An old sports injury or car accident from years ago might suddenly cause problems as the damaged nerve tissue dies and becomes infected.
Multiple dental procedures on the same tooth sometimes irritate the pulp beyond its ability to recover. Each filling or crown preparation stresses the nerve, and eventually it may require root canal treatment to resolve lingering sensitivity or pain.
Cracks in teeth allow bacteria to seep inside and infect the pulp. You might not even see the crack, but persistent pain when chewing or temperature sensitivity that lingers after removing hot or cold food signals trouble inside your tooth.
Signs You Need Treatment
Severe tooth pain that radiates to your jaw or ear indicates pulp inflammation or infection. The discomfort often intensifies when you lie down because increased blood flow to your head creates more pressure inside the infected tooth.
Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold that continues after removing the stimulus suggests nerve damage. While brief sensitivity is normal, pain that lingers for minutes means the pulp is struggling or dying.
Swelling in your gums near the painful tooth or a pimple-like bump that appears and disappears shows infection trying to drain. This abscess requires prompt attention before the infection spreads to the surrounding bone and tissue.
Tooth discoloration, particularly a grayish tint, sometimes indicates a dying nerve. The tooth may or may not hurt, but the color change signals internal problems that need evaluation.
What Happens During Root Canal Therapy
Dr. Ryan Kent begins by numbing your tooth thoroughly so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Many patients actually fall asleep during treatment because they’re finally getting relief from the constant aching.
Once you’re comfortable, we create a small opening in your tooth to access the infected pulp chamber. We carefully remove all the diseased tissue, bacteria, and debris from inside the tooth using specialized instruments. The canals get cleaned, shaped, and disinfected to eliminate infection completely.
After cleaning, we fill the empty canals with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha that seals them against future infection. A temporary filling closes the access opening until you return for a permanent restoration. Root canal therapy in Yuma typically requires one or two appointments, depending on the severity of infection.
Most teeth need a crown after root canal treatment because the procedure removes significant tooth structure. The crown protects your treated tooth from fracturing and restores its full chewing function.
Recovery and Aftercare
Some tenderness around the tooth is normal for a few days as the surrounding tissues heal from the infection. Over-the-counter pain relievers usually manage any discomfort, and most people return to their regular routine the next day.
Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until you get your permanent crown. The temporary filling protects the tooth but can’t withstand heavy biting forces. Stick to softer foods on that side and chew carefully.
Brush and floss normally around the treated tooth. Good oral hygiene prevents new decay from developing around your restoration. The tooth itself won’t get cavities anymore since we removed the nerve, but the surrounding tooth structure and gum tissue still need protection.
How Long Do Treated Teeth Last?
Root canal therapy has a success rate above 95% when performed properly and followed by appropriate restoration. Your treated tooth can last the rest of your life with a crown protecting it and regular dental care maintaining your oral health.
Teeth in the back of your mouth handle more chewing pressure and definitely need crowns after treatment. Front teeth sometimes survive with just a filling if minimal tooth structure was lost, though crowns provide better long-term protection.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Ignoring tooth pain allows infection to spread and destroy more bone around your tooth root. What could have been a straightforward root canal might become an extraction if you delay too long. Contact Avenue B Dentistry in Yuma, AZ, right away if you’re experiencing persistent tooth pain, sensitivity, or swelling. We’ll examine your tooth, take necessary X-rays, and explain whether root canal therapy can save it. Quick action today prevents tooth loss tomorrow.