Root Canal Treatment Port Orange

How Does a Tooth Become Infected?

The inside of your tooth, called the pulp chamber, is surrounded by protective layers. However, these layers are not impenetrable. Despite the hardness of tooth enamel—the outermost layer—and the additional protection of dentin in between, bacteria can make their way to the pulp chamber and its attendant root canals. Severe tooth decay, a deep crack, or a full-on break in the tooth can create an opening that gives bacteria access to this extremely sensitive portion of a tooth.

The pulp chamber houses a tooth’s blood, lymph, and nerve tissue. When overrun by bacteria, infection sets in, and these tissues begin to die. The inflammation that results from the infection is what causes your toothache. In addition to a toothache, the other signs of an infected tooth are:

• Sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages
• Increased pain when you bite or chew
• A small pimple-like sore on your gums
• The feeling of an earache, but no sign of infection
• Fever

If you experience any of these symptoms, call Port Orange dentist Dr. Bannan to schedule an appointment. Avoiding treatment may eventually necessitate extracting the tooth in order to avoid the spread of infection. We also serve the areas of Daytona Beach, Port Orange, Holly Hill, Ormond Beach, Edgewater, Ponce Inlet, New Smyrna Beach, and beyond.

How Is a Root Canal Performed?

After administering a local anesthetic, Dr. Bannan drills a small access hole in your tooth and uses special instruments to clear the infection. The entire contents of the pulp chamber and root canals are then filled with a biocompatible substance that prevents the re-entry of bacteria. Finally, the pulp chamber is sealed, and the tooth is readied for a dental crown.