Root canal signs and what actually happens

What is a root canal?

A root canal is recommended when the nerve inside a tooth becomes inflamed or infected. Inside each root there is a tiny canal that holds the nerve and the blood supply of the tooth.

During treatment, the endodontist gently cleans out the infected tissue, disinfects the canals, and fills them with a rubbery, medicated material that seals the tip of the root. After healing, your dentist places a crown or other restoration over the tooth to rebuild its strength and function.

Infections start in a few common ways. Decay can reach deep into the tooth. A tooth can crack or take a hit. An old filling or crown can leak and let bacteria reach the nerve.

What are the signs I might need one?

Call us if you notice any of these.

• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
• Sharp pain when biting or chewing
• Swelling, or a pimple-like bump on the gums near a tooth
• Pain that wakes you up at night
• Relief when you sip cold water
• An obvious crack, a deep cavity, or trauma to the tooth
• A tooth that feels different, looks darker, or is slightly loose

Can a tooth die without pain?

Yes. Sometimes a tooth dies quietly. In those cases your dentist may spot an abscess or a dark area at the tip of the root on a digital x-ray or a 3D scan, even before you feel any symptoms.

An abscess forms when bacteria are left inside the root and the body tries to fight the infection. White blood cells gather and die, and that collection has to be cleared for the tooth to heal. It is also why some teeth need more than one visit, or extra medication, before they feel completely better.

What happens at Pearl Dental Care?

The care is handled in four steps.

• A comprehensive exam in our office, with digital x-rays and, if needed, a 3D cone beam scan, plus a review of all options including root canal, extraction or other treatment
• A referral to one of the endodontists we work with regularly, who receive your records, 3D images and detailed notes before you arrive
• The root canal itself, which the endodontist may finish in one visit or over two or more appointments depending on the tooth and the infection
• The final restoration back at this office, where a durable crown or other restoration is placed to protect the tooth long term

We hand-selected a small network of experienced endodontists who focus on root canal therapy all day, every day. You get your diagnosis here, in an office you already know. We send the specialist your scans and notes before you go, and you come back to us for the crown.

How does 3D imaging help?

We use advanced 3D cone beam imaging. It shows the shape, the number and the length of the canals inside your tooth. That detailed view helps decide whether a root canal is the best option, and it gives the endodontic partner the information needed to treat the tooth thoroughly.

Will I need a crown afterward?

Usually. After a root canal, a crown or other restoration is placed to rebuild its strength and restore your bite so you can chew comfortably again. The goal is simple: keep your natural tooth whenever possible and relieve the pain.

When to treat it as an emergency

If you have severe tooth pain, swelling, or think you might have an abscess, say so when you call. It may be treated as a dental emergency, and we will do our best to see you as soon as possible.

To ask a question or book a visit, call Pearl Dental Care at (630) 810-9940 or visit us at 331 W 63rd St, Westmont, IL 60559.

This guide is educational only. Your dentist will tailor any plan at your visit.