Tooth pain is more than just an inconvenience—it can be a sign of a deeper issue that shouldn’t be ignored. In many cases, severe tooth pain is caused by infection or damage to the inner pulp of the tooth, and prompt treatment is crucial to prevent further complications. Our Grand Rapids dentists prioritize preserving your natural teeth, which is why we begin with conservative procedures like root canal therapy to save the tooth whenever possible.

Learn more about root canal treatment below.

Symptoms That Point Towards a Future Root Canal 

Visiting our Grand Rapids dental office every six months is essential for maintaining your oral health and catching potential problems before they become serious. Many times, no obvious symptoms indicate the need for an emergency root canal, which is why routine appointments and professional teeth cleanings are so important.

By staying on top of at-home oral care and addressing any changes or discomfort with our dentists early on, you can often avoid the need for not only a root canal procedure, but potential tooth extraction.

Common signs of a possible root canal include:

  • Severe toothache
  • Darkening of the tooth
  • Prolonged tooth sensitivity
  • Sore or swollen gums
  • Pimple on the gums
  • Pain with applied pressure (i.e., while eating)
  • Jaw pain or swelling
  • Tooth looseness

Please alert our office if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms. Our dentists will want to take a closer look to determine the next best steps.

How Root Canal Therapy Goes

Root canals are a safe and effective way to remove infection and restore your tooth’s health without the need for extraction, which is considered only as a last resort. With our expert care, you can avoid unnecessary tooth loss and maintain a healthy, functional smile.

During a root canal procedure, we will numb the tooth and area surrounding it before drilling an access hole through the top. Next, our dentists will remove the infected inner pulp using specialized tools. After your tooth has been properly flushed out and cleaned, we’ll seal it with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha and place a tooth-colored filling over top. It is worth noting, however, that most patients will likely require a dental crown to restore the tooth to its natural function and appearance.

Call Our Office Today 

If you find yourself dealing with tooth pain, our root canal dentists in Grand Rapids, MI, can help. Schedule an appointment by giving Contemporary Family Dental a call today at (616) 209-3969, or feel free to contact us online.

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