Emergency Dental Services in Albuquerque, NM

A root canal procedure is a dental procedure performed by an endodontist to treat a tooth that has become infected or damaged. 

What Causes Root Canal Infection?

Root canal infections are most likely caused by bacteria. These bacteria multiply in the mouth, reach the dental pulp in the core of the tooth, and cause infection. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding bone.

Root canal infections are painful, often because the nerve in a tooth is dying. These infections can be caused by trauma, deep decay, or cracks and chips. Root canal infections can cause the tooth to become discolored, painful, and sensitive. Root canal treatment is the only way to remove the bacteria and infection and save the tooth.

The symptoms of an infected root canal include the following:

• A painful toothache
• Swelling
• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods or beverages
• Discoloration (the tooth may become darker or gray)
• Bad odor from the mouth
• Pus coming from the tooth
• Tooth sensitivity when you drink or eat hot or cold foods

How Is a Root Canal Procedure Performed?

A root canal is a dental procedure that removes an infection from the inner portion of a tooth. Once the infection is removed, the rest of the tooth can be retained and is saved from extraction.

At your root canal appointment, we will first administer a local anesthetic to numb your tooth. Then, we will use a small dental drill to make a small hole in your tooth. We will then use dental files to remove the infected nerve tissue and clean out the emptied root canal. Once the root canal has been completely cleaned, we will fill it with a rubber-like material. The tooth is then sealed with a filling or dental crown.

Prevention Tips to Avoid Root Canal Infection

The best way to prevent a root canal infection is to take preventative action. These include:

• Brush your teeth twice every day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss after meals to remove plaque in difficult-to-reach areas.
• See your dentist in Albuquerque, NM every six months for a routine cleaning and checkup.
• Avoid hard foods such as hard candies and lollipops. 
• Wear a night guard at night if you have the habit of teeth grinding. 
• Wear a mouthguard while playing sports.

To learn more about the root canal procedure offered by Osuna Dental Care, call us at (505) 884-1989 or visit our dental office located at 5900 Cubero Dr NE suite B, Albuquerque, NM 87109.