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Dec
Understanding Root Canals: Relief from Pain and Infection
When you’re experiencing a toothache, a root canal procedure can relieve your pain and save your tooth. Besides alleviating your pain and saving your tooth, a root canal also keeps an infection from spreading to other parts of your body. While root canals have an undeserved bad reputation, today’s root canals are virtually pain-free. Let’s learn more about this important dental procedure and how Drs. Jennifer Wahlen and John Torghele can help.Â
What Are Root Canals?
Inside your teeth is a soft tissue called pulp that’s made up of nerves and blood vessels. When this pulp becomes infected, it can be very painful and even cause an abscess if not treated quickly. A root canal is a dental procedure that treats a tooth’s inflamed or infected pulp. During a root canal procedure, Dr. Wahlen removes the pulp that has become infected, cleans the tooth’s inner chambers, disinfects its root canals, and then seals the tooth to help prevent more infection and keep bacteria out.Â
What Are the Signs That You May Need a Root Canal?
In most cases, only a dentist will know for sure if you need a root canal. However, there are some signs to watch for at home if you have a toothache. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to schedule a dental appointment right away.
- Severe tooth pain, especially when pressure is applied or when chewing
- Sensitivity to cold or hot foods and beverages
- A tooth is discolored or dark
- Tenderness and swellings in the gum area around the tooth that hurts
- A pus-filled abscess on the gums
- Throbbing or discomfort inside the tooth
Why Are Root Canals Necessary?
Most dental pain is caused by an infection in a tooth or its root. Tooth infections are caused by several different things, including untreated cavities, chipped or cracked teeth, gum disease, poor oral hygiene, and even a weakened immune system. If an infected tooth is left untreated, it will eventually cause severe pain and can lead to complications that affect your oral and overall health. In most cases, an untreated dental infection can result in you losing your tooth.Â
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Is a Root Canal Painful?
Even though root canals have a reputation for being painful, modern advances in dental technology have eliminated most of the pain and discomfort associated with this important procedure. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area around the affected tooth, and you will feel little to no pain during the procedure. Once the anesthesia wears off, you may feel mild discomfort that can be alleviated with over-the-counter pain relievers.Â
Who Offers Root Canal Treatment in Perry, Utah?
If you’re experiencing dental pain, it’s crucial not to wait to seek help, as your tooth could be at risk. Drs. Wahlen and Torghele, along with the team at Wahlen Dentistry in Perry, Utah, are here to provide you with pain relief and help save your tooth. Call our office at (435) 246-4602 to schedule your appointment today.Â
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Dr. Jennifer Wahlen, DMD
Dr. Jennifer Wahlen, DMD, is an esteemed dental professional from Utah. Growing up in Ogden, she graduated from the University of Louisville with a DMD in 1999. A leader in esthetic and restorative dentistry, Dr. Wahlen has specialized training in Sleep and TMJ dentistry. She serves on Utah’s DOPL Board and actively participates in the Utah Dental Association, American Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. With over 25 years of experience, she is dedicated to her patients and community, volunteering for Bear River Head Start and Adopt a Smile programs.
Dr. John Torghele, DMD
Dr. John Torghele, DMD, is a highly skilled dentist with advanced training from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Recognized for his expertise in cosmetic and digital dentistry, he has received prestigious honors in cosmetic and endodontic practices from NSU. Dr. Torghele is an active member of the American Dental Association, Utah Dental Association, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. You can trust him for his commitment to excellence and patient care.
