
Root canals are a way to save an infected tooth from loss. The treatment also prevents infection spread.
An infected tooth canal can be very painful, but modern technology allows us to provide gentle and efficient root canal therapy.
Signs I Need a Root Canal
When bacteria or infection reach the center of your tooth, where the nerves and pulp are stored, you will likely have a severe toothache that worsens throughout the day. This may be accompanied by swelling and a blister on the gum.
This infection is a dental emergency and requires prompt care from the dentist. Without treatment, symptoms will worsen and put your oral health at serious risk.
In rare cases, if the tooth nerve is dead or damaged, you may not experience pain but may still notice swelling or a full feeling in the face near the site of your infection.
Advanced Root Canals in Royal Oak, MI
The latest technology and instrumentation make root canals more straightforward than ever. When you come in for your emergency dental treatment, we numb the area around your infected tooth and gently remove any inflamed material from its canal. Then, we rinse the tooth and temporarily close it.
After a week or two, you return to our dental office for a final restoration—crown or filling. We may use a filling if the infection was minor and the tooth is still stable, but most of the time, you’ll need a dental crown to reestablish strength.
Preventing Tooth Infections
Root canal infections can result from trauma, untreated decay, lack of oral hygiene, and not seeing your dentist regularly. When bacteria penetrate your tooth and reach the canal, you risk infection.
A Tooth Infection Is a Dental Emergency! Give Us a Call
If you suspect a tooth root infection, it’s crucial to contact the dentist as soon as possible to arrange an emergency dental appointment.