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A root canal is a specific dental procedure that repairs a tooth that has been severely damaged or infected. The damaged part of the tooth is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected. Then, the tooth is filled and sealed. 

Root canals are performed when infection or inflammation affects the dental pulp. The infection must be removed to avoid further damage to the tooth and the spread of the infection to other parts of your body. Root canals are one of the most common dental procedures performed every year.

Symptoms of Root Canal Infection

Root canal infection symptoms include:

• Pain. This pain can be mild, moderate, or severe. You may experience pain when you chew or put pressure on the tooth.
• Swelling. You may experience swelling in the area around your tooth.
• Tenderness. The tooth may feel tender when you bite down.
• Foul taste. You may notice a foul taste in your mouth.

What Causes Root Canal Infection?

Root canal infection happens when bacteria from the mouth travel inside the tooth and infect the root canals.

When the pulp becomes infected, it can be because the tooth has a deep cavity or it has suffered some kind of trauma. Both of these scenarios create an opening through which bacteria can enter and infect the tooth.

How Can You Prevent Root Canal Infection?

The best way to prevent infection is to practice excellent oral hygiene. This means brushing at least twice a day and flossing. Also, be sure to see your dentist for regular dental checkups.

How Can You Treat Root Canal Infection?

If your infection is severe enough, you might need a root canal procedure. The steps involved are as follows:

1. The dentist will numb the tooth with a local anesthetic.
2. The dentist will drill an opening in the crown of the tooth.
3. The dentist will clear away the pulp and any infected tissue.
4. The dentist will disinfect and fill the root canals with a rubber-like material.
5. The dentist will place a temporary filling on the tooth.
6. The dentist will perform a follow-up appointment to check the progress of the treatment.

According to the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), root canals have a success rate of 90% to 95%. The AAE cites this success rate as based on reports from more than 25 years of clinical research. Part of this success rate can be attributed to the use of new dental technologies, like dental microscopes, which provide the dentist with a clearer view of the tooth and, therefore, a more accurate procedure.

Schedule an appointment with Austgen Family Dental if you have more questions about root canal procedures. We are at 1405 W County Line Rd, Suite A, Greenwood, IN 46142. Contact us at (317) 885-6400 or visit our website to book an appointment.