How a Root Canal Treatment Can Help with an Abscessed Tooth

Root canal treatment is often the best (or only) way to deal with an abscessed tooth that results from a tooth infection. This review discusses the role root canal treatment plays in treating an abscessed tooth and what you can expect throughout the diagnostic and treatment processes.

An overview of root canal treatment for an abscessed tooth

An abscessed tooth can affect one’s ability to function daily. The good news is that a root canal treatment can often save the tooth and alleviate the discomforting symptoms.

What is an abscessed tooth?

An abscessed tooth is a pocket of pus that forms in the root of a tooth as a result of a bacterial infection. There are many reasons why a tooth infection and subsequent abscessed tooth may develop. Some of the more common causes are:

  • Chips and cracks
  • Dental trauma
  • Cavities
  • Gum recession

Any incident that exposes the tooth’s root could lead to an abscessed tooth. Treatment for an abscessed tooth involves killing the bacteria inside of the tooth and draining the dental abscess.

What are the symptoms of an abscessed tooth?

The symptoms can vary based upon the severity of the dental abscess. There may also be symptoms related to the infection or tooth damage that caused the abscess to form. The most notable symptoms of a dental abscess are:

  • Tooth pain
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Swollen gums
  • Jaw pain
  • Bad breath
  • Fever

A dental abscess results from an infection. The bacteria that cause it can put off a foul-smelling odor as well as affect the person’s general health, causing bad breath and fever. Pain, swelling, and sensitivity of the teeth, gums, and jaw are common as well.

When is root canal treatment necessary?

An abscessed tooth will not go away on its own. In addition, antibiotics are not usually enough to treat dental abscesses. Consequently, in most cases, root canal treatment is the best way to deal with a dental abscess. If left untreated, then the patient risks prolonged discomfort, the risk of the infection spreading, and potential loss of the tooth.

What can I expect during root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment for an abscessed tooth involves accessing the root of the tooth, draining the abscess, disinfecting the tooth’s root with antibiotics, and filling the tooth. The tooth is then sealed, and the last step is to place a dental crown over it for added protection. The procedure is typically short and safe with minimal risks. However, the patient does need to plan for a recovery period that can take several days. Complications after a root canal treatment are rare, but it is important to keep the mouth as clean as possible during recovery.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Root Canal Treatment in New York, NY

Are you suffering from an abscessed tooth?

Call our dental team today or send us a message to schedule a consultation to determine if the cause of your symptoms is an abscessed tooth or another underlying concern and what the best treatment approach is to alleviate the symptoms and save the tooth.

Request an appointment or call New York Dental Office at 212-548-3261 for an appointment in our New York office.

Recent Posts

How Root Canal Treatment Can Prevent Future Dental Issues

A root canal treatment is an optimal way to restore your tooth. It is also an effective way to protect your tooth. Dental damage can result from an injury or decay. Tooth extraction is an easy solution but keeping your natural tooth structure is healthier. If you want to know how a root canal treatment…

Common Causes For Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure performed to save a damaged, decayed, or infected tooth from becoming lost or causing more concerning symptoms. It is important to understand the causes and warning signs that indicate a possible need for a root canal.The most notable and common causes for root canal treatment are an…

Can Multiple Teeth Need A Root Canal Treatment?

Most people find root canal treatment frightening. This procedure has a bad reputation for being painful and unpleasant. But your dentist has the skills and instruments necessary to handle the process efficiently and with minimal pain. There is a possibility that a patient may have numerous teeth that require extensive treatment. The dentist can assess…

Corey Brick, DDS

Share
Published by
Corey Brick, DDS

Recent Posts

Dental Care Tips From an Emergency Dentistry Office

Seeking emergency dentistry treatments can help you get relief. It can also help you regain…

2 days ago

3 Tips for Caring for Your Smile Makeover

Getting a smile makeover can make a big difference in one's confidence.

5 days ago

What Are the Differences Between a General Dentistry and an Emergency Dentistry Office?

You may have a basic understanding of the differences between general dentistry and an emergency…

6 days ago

4 Reasons to Seek Out an Emergency Dentistry Office

Emergency dentistry can provide dental care during unexpected dental crises. Unfortunately, not all dentists can…

2 weeks ago

Discreet Teeth Straightening with Invisalign

Invisalign is a clear aligner system that consists of a series of custom-made trays to…

2 weeks ago

What to Do When You Are Waiting for Emergency Dentistry

Emergency dentistry can provide immediate relief from the discomfort that you may be experiencing. While…

2 weeks ago