Managing Tooth Pain

Managing Tooth Pain

Managing Tooth Pain

Tooth Pain Treatment Solutions: From Fillings to Root Canal Therapy, Which Is Right For You?

Tooth pain can be a distressing experience, and choosing the right treatment is crucial for restoring oral health and alleviating discomfort. College Hill Dental Group, recognized as the best dentist in Easton, PA, offers a range of effective solutions, including fillings and root canal therapy, tailored to address different dental issues. Managing Tooth Pain

Understanding Tooth Pain

Before diving into treatment options, it’s essential to understand the common causes of tooth pain. Toothaches can result from various factors, such as cavities, dental decay, fractures, or infections in the dental pulp. Identifying the root cause is the first step in determining the most appropriate treatment.

Fillings: A Conservative Approach

For minor cavities and early-stage dental decay, fillings are often the go-to solution. College Hill Dental Group prioritizes a conservative approach, aiming to preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible. The process involves: a. Examination: Our dentist thoroughly examines the affected tooth, typically using X-rays to assess the extent of the cavity. b. Removal of Decay: The decayed portion of the tooth is removed, leaving a clean, prepared area for the filling. c. Filling Placement: The prepared space is filled with a dental material, commonly composite resin or amalgam, restoring the tooth’s structure. d. Bonding and Shaping: The filling is bonded to the tooth and shaped to ensure a natural look and proper bite. Fillings are an excellent choice for smaller cavities and early-stage decay, providing durability and restoring the tooth’s function and appearance.

Root Canal Therapy: Addressing Deeper Issues

When dental pulp is infected or damaged, causing more severe tooth pain, the dentist may recommend root canal therapy. College Hill Dental Group employs this advanced procedure to save a tooth that might otherwise need extraction. Key steps in root canal therapy include: a. Diagnosis: Thorough examination and diagnostic tests, including X-rays, determine the extent of infection and the need for root canal therapy. b. Access Opening: A small opening is made in the tooth to access the infected pulp. c. Cleaning and Shaping: Specialized instruments are used to clean and shape the root canals, removing infected tissue and debris. d. Filling and Sealing: The cleaned root canals are filled with a biocompatible material, and the access opening is sealed to prevent reinfection. e. Restoration: In most cases, a tooth that undergoes root canal therapy will need a permanent restoration, such as a crown, to restore strength and functionality.

Choosing Between Fillings and Root Canal Therapy

The decision between fillings and root canal therapy depends on the severity of the dental issue. Fillings are suitable for minor cavities and early decay, preserving the natural tooth structure. Root canal therapy becomes necessary when the infection reaches the dental pulp, requiring a more intensive intervention to save the tooth. Factors to Consider:
  1. Pain Level: Severe and persistent pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure, may indicate the need for root canal therapy.
  2. Tooth Sensitivity: A heightened sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, persisting even after the stimulus is removed, may indicate a pulp infection.
  3. Visible Decay: If there is visible decay or a deep cavity, a filling may be sufficient for restoration.
  4. Gum Swelling: Swelling and tenderness in the gums near a specific tooth may indicate an infection that requires root canal therapy.
  5. X-ray Findings: X-rays provide a detailed view of the tooth and surrounding structures, helping the dentist assess the extent of decay or infection.

Contact Us!

College Hill Dental Group understands the importance of tailored dental care and offers both fillings and root canal therapy to address tooth pain effectively. Whether you need a simple filling or a more complex root canal, the expert team at College Hill Dental Group is dedicated to delivering personalized and compassionate care, aiming to restore your oral health. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with the best dentist in Easton, PA, to explore the most suitable treatment option for you.

What To Expect From A Root Canal

What to expect from a root canal

What To Expect From A Root Canal

What To Expect From A Root Canal: A Comprehensive Guide

What to expect from a root canal

When it comes to dental procedures, root canals can be daunting for patients. However, root canals are highly successful and have saved countless teeth from extraction. A root canal is a procedure that involves removing the pulp of the tooth, which is the tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. This blog post will go over what to expect from a root canal at our Easton, PA dental practice, so that you can feel comfortable and well-informed.

Step 1: Diagnosis and Treatment Plan

Before the root canal procedure, your dentist will take X-rays of the affected tooth to assess the extent of the damage. They will also perform a physical exam to determine the cause of the damage. Once the diagnosis is complete, the dentist will discuss the treatment plan with you. This includes explaining the root canal process, how long it will take, and what you can expect before and after the procedure.

Step 2: Numbing the Area

Before the root canal procedure, the dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. This will help you feel comfortable during the procedure. If you feel anxious about the procedure, your dentist may provide a sedative to help you relax.

Step 3: Cleaning the Tooth

The next step in a root canal is to clean out the damaged pulp tissue inside the tooth. The dentist will make an access hole in the tooth and use specialized tools to remove the pulp. The root canal space will then be shaped, cleaned, and disinfected to get rid of any remaining bacteria.

Step 4: Sealing the Tooth

After the root canal space is cleaned, your dentist will fill it with a special material called gutta-percha. This seals the space and keeps bacteria from re-entering the tooth. If the tooth is not yet fully restored, the dentist may place a temporary filling to protect the tooth until the final restoration is completed.

Step 5: Final Restoration

In most cases, the tooth will require a final restoration such as a dental crown or filling. This will depend on the extent of the damage, the location of the tooth, and your individual treatment plan. Your dentist will discuss the options with you and help you choose the best solution for your needs.

Root canals can save damaged and infected teeth from extraction, but the process can be intimidating. At College Hill Dental Group in Easton, PA, we prioritize patient comfort and want to ensure that our patients feel informed and at ease during every procedure. If you have any additional questions about what to expect from a root canal or would like to schedule your next appointment, please contact us.

Signs You May Need A Root Canal?

Signs You May Need A Root Canal?

Signs You May Need A Root Canal?

What to Look For – Signs You May Need A Root Canal

No one wants to need a root canal, but it’s an essential dental procedure that can help save your teeth from serious damage. If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort in your mouth, it’s important to pay attention. Here at College Hill Dental Group in Easton PA, we want our patients to be informed and knowledgeable about their own oral health. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of signs that may indicate you need a root canal.

Signs You May Need A Root Canal

 

Severe Toothache

This can be the most obvious sign that something is wrong with your teeth. The pain may be radiating and chronic or intermittent. If you experience tooth pain that isn’t relieved by over-the-counter medications, it’s time to call us for an appointment as soon as possible so we can determine whether or not you need a root canal procedure.

Darkening of Teeth

If your teeth have become discolored and darker than usual, it’s possible that the nerves inside your tooth are damaged or infected and need immediate attention. This could mean the difference between having to do a root canal procedure or having to remove the tooth altogether.

Signs You May Need A Root Canal?

Sensitivity To Temperature

Have you noticed that hot and cold foods cause extreme sensitivity? This can also be an indication that something isn’t right with one of your teeth and needs further investigation from us here at College Hill Dental Group in Easton PA.

Contact Us Today

No one enjoys going through a root canal procedure, but if left untreated, the condition of your teeth could worsen significantly over time and lead to more serious problems down the road such as gum disease or even tooth loss. It’s important to pay attention to any signs that may indicate you need a root canal so you can get help quickly and preserve your oral health for years to come! If you think you may be experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact us here at College Hill Dental Group in Easton PA for a consultation today!

All You Need To Know About Root Canals

All You Need To Know About Root Canals

All You Need To Know About Root Canals

Root canal therapy from our Easton PA dentist aims to remove germs from the infected root canal, avoid reinfection, and preserve the original tooth. The inflammatory or diseased pulp is removed, and the tooth’s interior is meticulously cleaned and sanitized before being filled and sealed.

What You Should Know About Root Canals

Don’t be concerned if your Easton PA dental practice or endodontist recommends a root canal operation to repair a broken or diseased tooth. Every year, millions of teeth are treated and preserved in this manner, alleviating pain and restoring tooth health.

A soft tissue called pulp lies underneath the white enamel and a hard layer called dentin within your tooth. This tissue comprises blood arteries, nerves, and connective tissue that aid in the growth of the root of your tooth. However, a fully mature tooth may live without the pulp.

A contemporary root canal, performed by emergency dentist College Hill PA is nothing like those ancient proverbs! It’s relatively similar to a conventional filling, and depending on the state of your tooth and your unique circumstances, it may generally be finished in one or two sessions. A root canal is a generally painless and very successful procedure when done by dentist 18042. In no time, you’ll be smiling, biting, and eating with ease.

Root canal therapy provides several benefits, including the following:

-Chewing with efficiency

-Biting force and feeling are normal

-A natural appearance

Root Canals Explained

Trained professionals are the only ones who should be performing a root canal. Therefore, it’s essential to understand the facts regarding root canals before undergoing any form of dental procedure.

Is A Root Canal Painful?

A root canal isn’t any more painful than a filling or having a wisdom tooth extracted since patients are given an anesthetic. But, on the other hand, a root canal is usually a little uncomfortable or numb afterward and may even cause minor discomfort for a few days.

Signs You Need A Root Canal

A broken tooth caused by an accident or heredity, a deep cavity, or difficulties from an initial filling may need a root canal. In addition, when patients realize their teeth are sensitive to heat and cold sensations, they usually need a root canal.

There are several signs that you may need a root canal:

-When eating or biting, there is a lot of discomforts.

-Fractured or chipped tooth

-Sensitivity to warmth or cold

-Swollen or painful gums

-A yellowing of the gums characterizes gum disease or decay.

Can I Work After A Root Canal?

Our friends at Park Hills Family Dentistry, dental implants Lexington KY, state that even though you will most likely be numb for 2-4 hours after the treatment, most patients can return to school or work right afterward. However, avoid eating until you are no longer numb.

Cost Of A Root Canal

In most cases, a root canal is a cheaper course of treatment than a pulled tooth. To restore chewing function and prevent neighboring teeth from moving, a removed tooth must be replaced with an implant or bridge. These treatments are usually more expensive than endodontic therapy and restoration.

If you think you are in need of a root canal or want to know more, contact our office today.

Signs of Infection Post Root Canal

Signs of Infection Post Root Canal

Signs of Infection Post Root Canal

For most patients, a root canal is a simple operation that can be forgotten about after it is performed. However, if not taken care of properly an infection can occur after the procedure is done. Your Easton PA dentist has put together a list of signs of infection post root canal.

How To Tell If A Root Canal Is Infected

Unfortunately, some patients have pain again after their root canal and additional issues caused by infection and may need an emergency dentist Easton PA. Following a root canal, a person may get an infection for a variety of causes, including:

-During the operation, bacteria infiltrate the soft tissue

-Bacteria that have remained in the canal

-Cracked root of tooth

-After the surgery, germs might enter because of a defective filling

-The protecting crown is deteriorating.

You may not want to go back to the dentist Easton PA  after a root canal, but neglecting an infection may lead to tooth loss, gum disease, the need for more sophisticated dental treatment, or even systemic sickness due to the spread of infection and inflammation. Therefore, it’s essential to notify your dentist and get treatment as soon as possible if you develop issues after root canal treatments.

So, how can you tell if you’ve had a root canal and got an infection? Here’s all you need to know about it.

Infection Symptoms After a Root Canal

Infection after a root canal is uncommon, but it does occur. It might take days, weeks, or even years for it to happen. If you’re having any of the following symptoms, call your emergency dentist 18042 to make an appointment, regardless of how long it’s been since your root canal.

Pain

An infection might be indicated by lingering or throbbing tooth pain, a throbbing toothache, or discomfort produced by chewing or other pressure on the treated tooth. If your tooth is susceptible to heat or cold following a root canal, this might also indicate infection.

Discoloration of Teeth

Bacteria infect the pulp, which is the live portion of the tooth when they penetrate the inside of the tooth. This depletes the tooth’s nutrition supply, destroying the nerve and often resulting in discoloration. This does not apply if your initial root canal had a prosthetic crown. On the other hand, if you were able to maintain your original tooth crown and it has gotten black and discolored, this might indicate that bacteria has entered your canal and caused more illness.

Tenderness and Swelling of Gums

Often times inflammation can mean infection. If you’ve had a root canal and are experiencing discomfort and swelling surrounding the treated tooth, see your dentist right away to have it inspected and treated since this might indicate a reinfected root canal. Swelling at the treatment site may not stay contained; it might extend to your neck and face. In any case, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.

Abscess in Mouth

Dr. Kim, dentist in Lexington KY, states that a dental abscess is a pus-filled pocket that develops due to a bacterial infection. It may develop inside the tooth, gums, or jaw. The abscess may be apparent (it may appear as a pimple on your gums), or it may not be evident at all. An abscess may cause extreme pain, painful lymph nodes, heat and cold sensitivity, and a terrible taste or odor in your mouth. Dental abscesses are infection symptoms that do not go away on their own. Whether your abscess is close or far from your treated tooth, it’s critical to contact your dentist as soon as possible.

Bad Breath That Won’t Go Away

Infection may leave a foul odor and a bitter taste in your mouth that refuses to go away after brushing and flossing. Sometimes the sole indication of illness is persistent bad breath. If you’re brushing and flossing regularly but still can’t get rid of the odor, you could have an infection.

Are you looking for a dentist that specializes in root canals? Do you have problems following a root canal? We can assist you.

At College Hill Dental Group, we’re dedicated to delivering outstanding dental treatment in a relaxing and nurturing atmosphere for every one of our patients. Whether you need a root canal or are experiencing issues after a root canal, we are delighted to assist you. Contact us today!

About Root Canal Therapy

about root canal therapy - dentist easton pa

Root Canal Therapy

The truth is, teeth can last a lifetime if they’re well taken care of. When patients have severely decayed or infected teeth, it’s critical that they search for a dental professional. Tooth extractions used to be the go-to treatment, but now root canal therapy is the better option. In honor of Root Canal Awareness Week, our dentists in Easton, PA, talk about root canal therapy and how you may benefit from this restorative treatment. 

What Exactly Is Root Canal Therapy? 

Every year, millions of root canals are performed in the United States. As your favorite dentist, we do everything we can to preserve your natural teeth. Unnecessary extractions and tooth replacements can be costly. So, what exactly is root canal therapy? The interior of a tooth includes a soft substance known as the pulp, as well as the nerve and other tissue. 

A tooth infection can occur if the exterior of the tooth is weakened to the point that the pulp is exposed. When you visit our dental office in Easton, PA, Dr. Seth or Dr. Dave will clean out the infection to preserve the structure of the tooth. Since the nerve’s sole purpose is to provide sensory experience, removing it would have little effect on the normal operation of your tooth. To avoid further damage, the tooth will be covered with a dental filling or a same-day dental crown. Our friends Dr. Cody Boals and Dr. Alexa Johnson, Colorado Springs dentists, point out that tooth infections are preventable. Following a good oral health regimen and overall good lifestyle is key. 

Symptoms of an Infected Tooth

  • Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
  • Pain when biting down
  • Swelling
  • Throbbing
  • Pain

Benefits

  • Restored functionality 
  • Natural appearance 
  • Prevents further damage

Root Canal Therapy Stages

  1. Many patients are naturally nervous about undergoing root canal therapy. To make your treatment more comfortable, the tooth will be numbed throughout your visit. 
  2. During treatment, the tooth’s canal is cleaned and formed in preparation for filling. 
  3. To seal the canals, they are filled with a rubber-like substance.
  4. To strengthen the tooth, it is capped off with a dental crown. At College Hill Dental Group, we offer same-day crowns. So, you won’t have to worry about coming back for dental crown placement.

Contact Dentist in Easton, PA

Root canals are often needed for emergency dental treatment. Dr. Dave Moghadam and Dr. Seth Walbridge will do everything they can to get you out of pain and smiling again. So, contact College Hill Dental Group to schedule an appointment today! 

Do I Need a Root Canal?

root canal - College Hill Dental Group

Do I Need a Root Canal?

Our teeth are something that we use on a daily basis. Typically, any aches or pains are a sign that something is not right. Dentists in Easton, PA, agree that if you’re asking yourself, “Do I need a root canal?” you should consult with a dental professional before the problem gets worse. In this article, Dr. David Moghadam shares everything you need to know about root canals. 

About Our Smiles

The roots of your teeth have openings referred to as canals. These canals contain nerve fibers and blood vessels. In short, the blood vessels and nerves keep your teeth alive. If these nerves or blood vessels develop an infection or decay, you can start to feel pain in the affected tooth. When that happens, a root canal may be required to repair that diseased tooth. This procedure entails the skills of an endodontist or general dentist at College Hill Dental Group in Easton, PA. The procedure consists of removing the pulp inside the affected tooth and then sealing the canals so that the tooth can remain functional and pain-free.

Why Would You Need to Undergo a Root Canal?

Your dentist in Easton, PA, may recommend that you undergo root canal therapy if your tooth exhibits signs of pulpal damage or infection. If your tooth is damaged or develops a sizeable cavity, oral bacteria may penetrate to the root and infect the pulp. Your dentist will likely use an intraoral camera to show you exactly what they’re seeing. If treatment isn’t provided promptly, the bacteria can lead to serious infection, bone loss, and in advanced cases, the tooth itself will be lost.

According to the emergency dentistry experts at College Hill Dental Group in Easton, PA, the most common reasons for pulpal damage include:

  • Traumatic injuries, such as sports injuries, which result in nerve tissue damage
  • Physical irritation, such as that resulting from deep tooth decay. This irritation eventually reaches the nerve and damages it.
  • A crack or fracture that extends to the root of the tooth, thereby adversely affecting the pulp inside the tooth.

What Are the Symptoms and Signs of Damaged Dental Pulp?

Our friend Dr. Ben Kacos, an endodontist in Shreveport, LA, points out that while different people will exhibit different signs and symptoms, the following are the most common of those signs:

  • Tooth pain as the individual is chewing
  • Severe tooth sensitivity to hot or cold drinks
  • Facial or gum swelling
  • Graying or discoloration of the affected tooth
  • Tenderness and swelling of the gums close to the tooth with damaged pulp
  • Pus or draining from the affected tooth

In our many years of experience in endodontics, some cases of pulpal damage don’t trigger any signs, and the patient remains unaware that such damage has occurred. For this reason, we always encourage our patients to come in regularly for dental cleanings and exams. Any dental problems that begin to develop can be detected early and treated before they progress and become worse problems.

The Root Canal Treatment Procedure

When you come to College Hill Dental Group in Easton, PA, to have a root canal performed, we will begin by administering a numbing agent. Numbing the area will ensure that you don’t feel any pain during the procedure.

Once the anesthetic kicks in, your Easton PA dentist will proceed to drill into the tooth in order to access the infected or dead pulp inside. The dentist will then remove all the infected or dead pulpal tissue, followed by cleaning the area thoroughly.

Once the canal is clean, a sealing material will be used to cover the point through which the pulp was accessed. 

In most cases, a restoration, such as a dental crown, may be needed to restore the structural integrity of the treated tooth. Talk to your dentist at College Hill Dental Group about whether or not you’ll need additional treatment. 

In most cases, if you undergo a root canal at College Hill Dental Group, the results of that procedure will last for your lifetime. Make sure that you follow any aftercare instructions recommended by your dentist.

When to Contact Your Easton PA Dentist After a Root Canal

You need to contact a dentist in Easton, PA, as soon as you develop abnormal swelling or persistent tooth pain post root canal therapy. Take action immediately in case you have developed a dental abscess, bone loss, or even tooth loss.

If you have any of the symptoms described earlier, contact College Hill Dental Group immediately so that one of our Easton, PA dentists can help.