Root canals are dental procedures that clean out any decay in the root and pulp of your teeth. Teeth are made up of an outermost layer of enamel, followed by dentin, and then a soft core that goes into your jawbone’s root. This core has a bundle of blood vessels, connective tissue, and nerves known as the dental pulp.

If the decay reaches this softcore, the pulp can get infected, necrotic, or inflamed. This requires a root canal clean the decay out.

Understanding root canals

Root canals clean out any decay that has reached the pulp of your tooth while preserving it. Your dentist will extract any decay and bacteria from the pulp before disinfecting everything with antibiotics. Your empty roots will then be filled up and sealed to prevent any more decay. Teeth that have undergone a root canal usually need to be covered by a crown since they are more fragile.

Symptoms

Here’s how you can tell if you need to get a root canal:

1. Persistent pain

One of the biggest signs you need to get a root canal is persistent pain in your tooth. The pain might constantly be bothering you or come and go in waves. You might even feel it deep within your jaw. Early diagnosis is best for a positive outcome, so make sure you go to your dentist as soon as possible.

2. Heat and cold sensitivity

Do your teeth hurt after drinking a cup of coffee or taking a bite of ice cream? This sensitivity might feel like a sharp twinge of pain or a dull ache. If the discomfort lingers long after you’ve stopped drinking or eating, it might be a sign that the nerves and blood vessels in your teeth are damaged.

3. Tooth discoloration

Any infection in your tooth’s pulp can cause discoloration since the damaged roots give a graying-black look to the tooth. Discolorations such as these are usually easier to see in front teeth.

Head over to a dentist in Midland, TX

It’s best to leave your diagnosis and treatment to a qualified dentist. Dr. Allan Baldawin at Dr Be Smiles has got you covered! We offer many different same-day dental services in Midland so that you won’t have to keep taking time off from work and chores to get your oral problems fixed. Whether you’re looking for cosmetic dentistry, same-day dental crowns, or professional teeth cleaning, we’ll make sure to accommodate you in the most compassionate way possible.

Book an appointment with us today! You can learn more about our details here.