Everything you need to Know about Root Canal Infection

A root canal infection occurs when bacteria enter a tooth and cause inflammation. This is also called an abscess. This often happens when a cavity goes untreated and leads to bacteria infecting the pulp inside the tooth. This infection leads to swelling, pain, and a pus-filled pocket.

Symptoms of a Root Canal Infection

A root canal infection can be painful and uncomfortable. However, some patients experience no symptoms at all. If you do notice any symptoms, they may include the following:

- An abscess: An abscess is a pocket of bacteria and pus that forms around the root of your tooth. In some cases, the abscess can burst and release the infection into your bloodstream. This is very dangerous, as it can damage your kidneys, heart, and brain. In a large number of cases, an abscess can be treated with antibiotics.

- A fever:  A fever can occur when your body is trying to fight off an infection.

- Tenderness: Your tooth may be sensitive to the touch. You may also notice swelling near your tooth.

- Gum irritation: Your gums may be irritated by the infection. This can be painful, but it can also lead to gum disease.

- Tooth discoloration: An infection can cause your tooth to become discolored.

- Tooth pain: Pain is a symptom of any dental problem, including a root canal infection. You may be in severe pain, or you may experience milder discomfort.

- Bad breath: An infection can cause bad breath. Bad breath is the body’s way of attempting to expel the infection, so bad breath may indicate that you have an infection.

- Sinus pain: An infection can cause sinus pain. In some cases, an abscess can form inside your sinus cavity. This can be very dangerous, as the infection can spread to your sinuses.

Root Canal Infection Diagnosis

A root canal infection is diagnosed when you experience pain, swelling, and sensitivity in the area around the tooth. You may also notice that the affected tooth is darker than your other teeth or that your gums are swollen.

Causes a Root Canal Infection

Root canal infections can occur when bacteria reach the pulp of a tooth. The bacteria can multiply, causing an infection. A root canal infection cannot repair itself and will eventually cause an abscess. Symptoms can include varying amounts of pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, bad taste, and swollen gums.

Root Canal Infection Treatment

Root canal infection is a serious dental condition that requires immediate care. If left untreated, the infection can spread throughout your body. A root canal involves the removal of the infected pulp from the tooth. The dentist will then clean and disinfect the tooth. If the tooth is severely damaged, the dentist may place a crown on top of the tooth. Once the infection is cleared, the dentist will refill the tooth with gutta-percha and provide a temporary restoration.

Varni Dental, located in San Jose, CA, is an equipped dentistry that provides effective treatments to the patient after proper diagnosis of the dental condition. The patients are provided an ideal treatment plan that can give a desirable outcome. Call  (408) 901-0101 and schedule an appointment with the Dentist San Jose CA.