/Occasionally, teeth can become infected or decayed. When this happens, a root canal might be the right procedure to save the infected tooth. Columbia Smiles’ experienced staff can determine if you need a root canal. During the procedure, our root canal dentist in Columbia, Maryland, removes the infection at the center of the impacted tooth. This involves accessing the root canals and pulp that extend into the roots of your tooth. No matter how concerned a root canal procedure makes you, it’s a step closer to solving your problem and eliminating the toothaches and pain associated with an infected tooth.

Our experienced dental health team includes board-certified dentist Dr. Michael Hsu and other qualified staff waiting to help you feel relief. Read on to find out why you might need root canal therapy in Columbia, Maryland, and what the procedure involves.

Why Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?

But what causes a tooth to need root canal therapy? Decay, dental trauma, chips, or cracks to a tooth can all cause damage to the tooth’s nerve tissue or pulp. The pulp is the soft area inside of a tooth. Infection or inflammation can lead to other oral health issues, such as toothaches and bad breath. So, it’s important to make an appointment to take care of the problem immediately. Some signs that you might need a root canal include the following:

  • Severe pain, including while chewing or biting
  • Toothaches
  • Swelling in your face and neck
  • Long-lasting sensitivity to hot or cold
  • Chipped or cracked teeth
  • Swollen or tender gums
  • Decayed or darkened gums

Your dentist will be able to tell you if you need a root canal or if other treatments can fix your issues. If you need root canal therapy in Columbia, Maryland, the help you need is available at Columbia Smiles. Sometimes, you could have multiple teeth that require a root canal. In this case, Dr. Michael Hsu will help you develop a care plan that allows you time to heal between treatments and complete the treatment as quickly as possible.

Our Root Canal Therapy in Columbia, Maryland

Root canal treatment begins with an X-ray to find the extent of the infection or decay. When the issue requires a root canal, your dentist starts by using local anesthesia to numb the area. Your dentist then makes a small opening into the pulp of your tooth and uses small tools to remove all infected material. After cleaning the tooth, your dentist will fill and seal it. Finally, a crown is often placed on top to keep the tooth secure and protected.

This process typically takes one to two appointments of about 90 minutes. At Columbia Smiles, our staff can work with you to find the right time for your treatment. It is important to treat infected or decayed teeth as quickly as possible before they lead to more serious health problems.

Afterward, maintain your newly restored teeth with good oral hygiene habits, including brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings. Some sensitivity post-root canal is normal. Your dentist will be able to monitor you for any issues. However, root canals treatments are highly successful, and with proper care, your restored teeth should last a lifetime.

While decayed teeth can be painful, root canal treatment is not, and can bring immediate relief.

How Can a Root Canal Treatment Relieve Pain?

As with fillings and some cosmetic procedures available at Columbia Smiles, root canal therapy requires local anesthetics to make the procedure as comfortable as possible. Afterward, you can take painkillers to relieve pain and discomfort as your mouth heals. We have an understanding staff that will answer your questions during your visit or your recovery. We realize that going to the dentist can be anxiety-inducing for some. That’s why we adopt an attitude of patience and support while taking good care of you.

Also, remember that the discomfort and pain of a root canal pass quickly. Toothaches and earaches resulting from a bad tooth will continue until you take care of the underlying problem.

Will I Need Another Root Canal?

Whether you need another root canal depends on the complexity of the infection. For simple procedures, the dentist can complete the root canal in one visit. However, if multiple teeth require root canal treatments or there are complications, more appointments could be necessary. Dr. Michael Hsu’s years of experience make him qualified to take care of even the most complex dental issues.

Root Canal Treatments at Columbia Smiles

At our award-winning dental practice, we offer root canals along with other dental services, such as wisdom teeth removal, cosmetic dentistry services, dental crowns and bridges, and dental trauma services. If you need root canal therapy in Columbia, Maryland, call Columbia Smiles at 410.690.4855, or contact us online to make an appointment or contact us online.