Without treatment from a doctor for root canals, pus from the infected tooth can spread to the root tip and eventually pass to the jaw bone. This can cause an abscess, or a pus pocket, that can damage the bone that surrounds the tooth. The pressure this causes can result in excruciating pain and, if left untreated, can be life threatening. An infected tooth or one that is suffering from tooth decay cannot heal on its own and will only get worse. 

Root canals are necessary when the pulp layer of a tooth becomes infected. Infection can lead to the loss of a tooth so it is necessary to remove the infection with root canal therapy. The procedure is generally comfortable and saves the natural tooth, prevents the spread of infection, and returns the smile to complete health

• All-­on-­Four Implants
• Bone Grafting
• CEREC
• Composite Restoration
• Teeth Whitening
• Crowns and Bridges
• Dentures
• Digital X-­Rays
• Gingivectomy
• Guided Tissue Regeneration
• Gum Grafting
• Implant Supported Dentures
• Invisalign
• Sleep Apnea/Snore Guards
• Oral Cancer Screening
• Osseous Surgery/Flap Surgery
• Periodontal Maintenance
• Pinhole Surgical Technique
• Root Canal Therapy
• Veneers

Root canals are often recommended when the pulp becomes infected in a tooth. Since this type of tooth decay can lead to tooth loss and serious health risks, it is important to remove the infected tissue with a root canal procedure. Root canals are actually less painful than is widely believed. Patients can contact Taff & Levine DDS to learn more about getting a root canal in Potomac, MD.

Why are root canals necessary?

Root canals are needed when the tooth pulp becomes infected. If the pulp is not removed from the inside of the tooth with a root canal procedure, the tooth decay may spread and lead to an abscessed tooth. This means that swelling, bone loss, and fluid buildup can occur. Unlike what is popularly believed, root canals are actually fairly comfortable and less painful than the actual infection.

What is tooth pulp?

The pulp is the soft tissue in the center of the tooth that contains the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues that supply nutrients to the tooth.

How does the pulp become infected?

There are two main sources of infection. These are cavities and fractured or broken teeth. This can occur as a result of extreme tooth decay, large restorations that fail, or trauma to the face. Once the pulp has become exposed, bacteria are able to enter the area and cause infection. Over time, the pulp will become inflamed and the resulting pressure will often create pain in that area.

What are the symptoms of infected tooth pulp?

You may need undergo a root canal if you experience one or more of these tooth decay symptoms:

• Severe tooth pain
• Extreme sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
• Pain upon biting
• Discoloration
• Abscesses

Patients suffering from extreme tooth decay should seek treatment right away. Contact Taff & Levine DDS to learn more about getting a root canal in Potomac, MD.