Tooth infection leads to root canal therapy in Woodbridge, ON

Your dentist’s goal is to help you maintain a healthy oral cavity and a beautiful smile. With a location in Woodbridge, ON, Dr. Vageesh Sabharwal offers general, cosmetic, and restorative dental services. For a patient suffering from a tooth infection, root canal therapy may be recommended to save the natural tooth.

A tooth infection, or abscess, occurs when bacteria enters the tooth. This usually occurs through an opening such as a cavity or crack in the tooth. Common causes of infection include severe decay, gum disease, or trauma. Patients with poor oral hygiene or who eat a high sugar diet are at a higher risk of a dental abscess.

Symptoms of tooth abscess

Signs of dental problems are often ignored until the patient is in pain. Common symptoms of a tooth abscess include:

• Persistent, throbbing tooth pain
• Sensitivity to temperatures
• Pain while eating
• Fever
• Facial swelling
• Swollen lymph nodes

If the abscess ruptures, you may notice a salty or foul taste. You also may experience pain relief. This does not mean your infection has healed. If you experience any of the above symptoms or think your abscess has ruptured, contact your dentist immediately.

Root canal therapy

If you are experiencing tooth pain, an examination and x-ray are done to assess the problem. An infected tooth needs dental attention and will not heal on its own. With a 95% success rate, root canals can ease your pain and treat your infection.
Root canals are performed to remove the bacteria and diseased tissue causing your pain and swelling. A local anesthetic is used to keep the patient comfortable throughout the procedure. The dentist removes the infected material from the pulp chamber of the tooth. The area is then cleaned and disinfected before being sealed and filled. A dental crown may be placed to provide a sturdy, durable surface.

Stop living with tooth pain. To make an appointment with Dr. Sabharwal in our Woodbridge location, call (844) 432-0770.