When a tooth develops an infection or an abscess, treatment is crucial to preserve the tooth and keep your smile whole. We often treat infected teeth using an endodontic solution known as root canal treatment. Comparable to receiving a dental filling, a root canal can help return your tooth to optimal health and function.

Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Treatment

Question: How does a tooth become infected?

Answer: Our teeth are composed of many different layers. The outermost is the protective tooth enamel. Beneath that is dentin, which makes up a majority of the tooth structure. At the center sits a bundle of tissue called the pulp, which acts as the tooth’s nerve center and contains blood vessels. An infection or abscess can form when bacteria reaches the pulp, whether due to advanced decay or an injury to the tooth.

Question: When should I see the dentist?

Answer: You should see the dentist regularly for preventive care so that areas of decay can be identified before they reach the pulp of the tooth.  Visit us as soon as possible for an emergency exam if you notice persistent or spontaneous discomfort in your tooth. Warning signs of a possible infection may include toothaches, pain when eating, swelling near the tooth, fever, or possibly even a bad taste. Don’t ignore these symptoms, as an untreated infection can lead to a lost tooth and the spread of infection to surrounding teeth.  Dental infections can become a serious health threat and should not be ignored or untreated.

Question: How do you treat the tooth?

Answer: We will administer a local anesthetic so that we can painlessly access the pulp of the tooth. We remove the infected tissue and then thoroughly clean the interior of the tooth. We will add a restorative filling material to build the tooth back up. Finally, we top the tooth with a custom-made crown to protect and strengthen the tooth.

Question: Will the repaired tooth blend with my smile?

Answer: Yes! The crown we create will be custom-made and color-matched to ensure a comfortable fit and a natural looking appearance. If you have any questions about root canal treatment, please contact our office today.

Do You Have a Dental Infection?

At Magnolia Family Dental, Dr. Johnson-G’Sell and our talented team can treat advanced decay and infected teeth using root canal therapy. To schedule a visit with Dr. Emily Johnson, call Magnolia Family Dental in Kirkwood/St. Louis, MO, today at 314-822-4521.