Thanks to endodontics, it's possible to save teeth that would have been lost due to inflammation or infection of the pulp. Endodontic techniques are used to perform root canals, one of the many oral health services and treatments offered by your Waterford, MI, dentist, Dr. Glen Marsack.
 

How endodontics can help you

A tooth consists of an inner core of soft pulp covered by hard dentin and enamel layers. Although the pulp is well-protected, it can become inflamed or infected due to:
 

• Tooth Decay: If a cavity isn't treated promptly, the decay can eventually reach the pulp.
• Multiple Dental Procedures: Pulp issues are more likely to occur if you've had several procedures on the same tooth.
• Injuries: A blow to your tooth can damage the pulp.
• A Crack or Chip: Cracks and chips, even small ones, create pathways that make it easier for bacteria to enter your tooth.

During a root canal, your dentist opens your tooth and removes the pulp from the center of the tooth and the tiny canals that extend from the top of the tooth to the roots. Once the pulp is removed he'll clean the tooth and shape the root canals using tiny files. He may also add antibiotics to the tooth before placing a temporary filling. Before your treatment begins, you'll receive a local anesthetic to ensure that you feel no pain.
 

In a week or two, you'll return to the dental office. If your tooth is healing well, you'll receive a permanent filling. You may also need a dental crown to protect and strengthen your treated tooth.
 

Signs that you may need a root canal

If you need a root canal, you may experience tooth pain, which can range from a mild ache to severe, throbbing pain. Obvious changes to your teeth and gums may also occur. The gum around your tooth may become red and puffy, or your tooth may become discolored.
 

Pain accompanied by a fever may be a sign that you have an abscess. The bacterial infection requires an emergency visit to the Waterford dental office to stop the spread of the bacteria throughout your body. Other abscess symptoms may include pus or a bump on your gum, facial swelling, and swollen lymph nodes.
 

Have you been suffering from tooth pain or other concerning symptoms? Call your dentist in Waterford, MI, Dr. Glen Marsack, at (247) 682-9331 to schedule your appointment.