Do You Need a Specialist for a Root Canal? What You Need to Know?

If you suspect that you might need to see a root canal specialist, don’t panic. While a lot of people feel uneasy about the idea of a root canal, it is actually a very straightforward treatment. Root canal treatment will fix your damaged or infected tooth and therefore take away any pain or discomfort you might be experiencing as a result. This is why it’s a good idea to learn about root canal treatment and how to recognise when you might need it. With this knowledge under your belt, you can be prepared for any future infection you might experience and act quickly to minimise its impact.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a procedure that aims to repair the damaged inside of a tooth. A root canal is necessary if the soft centre of the tooth, known as the dental pump, is impaired. The tooth might be infected or damaged as a result of decay, repeated dental work, gum disease, cracked fillings, injury or even general wear and tear. During the procedure, the dental pump will be removed, and the space will be filled and sealed. The crown or surface of the tooth may also be replaced.

Do I Need to See a Root Canal Specialist?

If you need a root canal, you probably won’t require a specialist. The process of performing a root canal is standard for a regular dentist. It involves drilling a hole into the tooth, removing the dental pump, and filling the space. Dentists are trained to recognise the signs that an individual might require a root canal, and can address the issue in the majority of cases. You also shouldn’t find that you have any issues beyond a little swelling and tenderness for a few days. Root canals, after all, don’t cause health problems — they’re designed to fix them!

This doesn’t mean, however, that you shouldn’t take a root canal seriously. If you suspect that you might need a root canal, contact your dentist as soon as possible. If the infection or damage is extreme or complex in nature, you may require a root canal specialist, known as an endodontist.

Signs to Talk to Your Dentist About a Root Canal

There are several signs that indicate you might require a root canal. Firstly, you will likely experience severe toothache that is especially present when biting or chewing. You might also be extra sensitive to hot or cold, and this pain will last even after the heat or cold has gone away. Your gums might become swollen or tender, and your face or neck could swell too. The infected or damaged tooth could become loose, or darken in colour. You might also find pus surrounding the tooth. If you notice any of these signs, talk to your dentist as soon as possible to fix the problem and minimise ongoing issues or pain.

Choose a Dentist You Feel Good About

It’s important that you feel confident about your dentist, especially if dental treatments make you uneasy. You need to feel comfortable speaking to your dentist about your symptoms and concerns. If you’re not able to communicate with your dentist, you may find that your dental issues go ignored or untreated, leading to the development of more severe problems.

At Langmore Dental, we value open communication and professionalism. We want all our patients to feel at ease and fully informed before they partake in any treatments. For this reason, we approach every dental issue with openness, sensitivity and care. If you suspect you might need a root canal, you should reach out to Langmore Dental. Our friendly and experienced dentists will solve your problems in no time. Book an appointment online or call us today!