Signs That You May Need a Root Canal

The thought of getting a root canal is unnerving for many people, largely because the treatment has unfairly attained a poor reputation in the public mindset. In reality, however, root canal therapy is a routine procedure designed that actually relieves pain by saving badly decayed or injured teeth from accumulating permanent damage or having to undergo extraction.

Dr. Joshua Montgomery, your dentist in Springfield, MO, offers root canal therapy and other dental services to help you achieve and maintain a beautiful smile—read on to learn more!

Root Canal Therapy From our Springfield Office

Try to forget everything you've heard or think you know about root canal therapy. Despite some popular belief, the truth is that this treatment is actually very similar to getting a cavity filled. Root canals become necessary when a cavity or injury exposes the soft tissue and nerves inside of a tooth to bacteria. This part of the tooth is referred to as the dental pulp, and if it becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause a tremendous amount of pain, as well as a number of health problems. fortunately, a root canal can solve the issue!

After cleaning the tooth's outside surface and applying a topical anesthetic to minimize discomfort and pressure, the dentist will remove any damaged tissue and bacteria from the pulp. Following these steps, the tooth is disinfected, sealed back up, and back to a healthy state.

How to Know if You Need a Root Canal

One of the most common signs of a problem is pain, specifically a toothache that does not go away on its own or feels worse when you bite down or apply pressure. Other signs that you may need a root canal include:

• Heightened sensitivity to hot or cold
• Signs of infection around the tooth
• Swelling and tenderness in the gums
• Darkened tooth
• Small pimple or growth on the gums

Find a Dentist in Springfield, MO

For more information about root canal therapy and how to protect yourself from gum disease and tooth decay, contact our office by calling (417) 883-2111 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Montgomery today.