If you’ve been told that you have a root canal infection or that you need to undergo root canal therapy, you’re not alone. Each year, millions of teeth are saved through safe and effective root canal treatments. While a root canal may sound painful, many patients find relief from more severe forms of pain caused by advanced decay or an abscess. During your treatment at our Duncan, OK clinic, Dr. Matthew L. Bridges will provide you with quality dental care in a comfortable, relaxing environment.
Dr. Bridges is known for his warm bedside manner. He stays up to date with the latest advances in dental technology. If you are looking for restorative treatments in the Duncan area, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Bridges at Chisholm Trail Smile Center! We are proud to be one of the oldest dental practices in Duncan. If you are looking for a dental care home in Duncan, OK, call us today!
What Is a Root Canal Infection and What Causes It?
Dr. Bridges performs root canal therapy to treat advanced infections. The aim of the procedure is to stop the spread of bacteria before it reaches the jawbone or blood supply. When a bacterial infection reaches the tooth’s inner pulp, it can spread quickly through the pulp chamber (the area deep within the tooth that houses nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue).
Once the infection reaches the pulp, the patient is said to have a root canal infection. The only treatment option at this point is root canal therapy. The procedure can save you tooth because the nerves are not vitally important and mainly serve a sensory role. Following a successful root canal procedure, you may be able to retain your natural tooth for the rest of your life.
Symptoms of Root Canal Infection
The most common sign that you are experiencing a root canal infection is the sudden onset of pain near one of your teeth. Since cavities are more common among molars, the pain may occur in the back part of your jaw. The onset of a root canal infection is considered a dental emergency. At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, we provide emergency care, meaning we will accept your case immediately if you are experiencing a root canal infection.
Our team of dental professionals is here to help you if an emergency situation should arise. If you are experiencing signs or symptoms of a dental emergency, or if you would like to find out more about our urgent care services, call our office at (580) 255-4880 or contact us online.
During your examination (which may include x-rays and digital images), Dr. Bridges may search for these symptoms to determine if you have a root canal infection.
- Pain while chewing
- Tooth discoloration
- Toothache
- Temperature sensitivity
- Tender gums
- Gum tissue swelling
- Jawbone pain
- Swelling of the face
- Difficulty swallowing
Treatment Options
The only effective treatment for root canal infection is root canal therapy. If the infection is too advanced, you may need to undergo tooth extraction, which we also perform. During your root canal therapy, Dr. Bridges will use local anesthesia to numb the surgical site. A small hole will then be drilled to gain access to the infected or decayed area. The area will then be cleaned, fill, and topped with a dental crown. Most individuals are able to return to work the day after undergoing root canal therapy.
Contact Our Office Today!
If you want to know the best dentist in the Velma or Duncan area, look no further than Dr. Matthew Bridges at Chisholm Trail Smile Center. Give us a call to schedule a consultation for root canal therapy.
