Cracked Teeth

Within the core of your tooth lies the pulp, a vital tissue composed of blood vessels that contribute to the development of the surrounding tooth structure. Infections in the pulp can arise from various causes such as trauma, significant decay, or cracks and chips, as well as from the stress of repeated dental treatments. Signs of an infected pulp include noticeable damage or swelling of the tooth, temperature sensitivity, or discomfort in the tooth and surrounding gum tissue.

Should you exhibit any of these indicators, it is likely that your dentist will propose a non-surgical approach to remove the affected pulp. The process entails the extraction of the compromised pulp, followed by a thorough cleaning and sealing of the root canal system. Typically, this treatment is performed under local anesthesia and might require multiple visits, depending on the complexity of the treatment needed. About 90% of these treatments successfully preserve the tooth. If, however, your tooth cannot be treated endodontically or if the prognosis is not positive, you will be notified either during your initial consultation or if any issues arise during or subsequent to the treatment. Local anesthesia is utilized to ensure comfort, and nitrous oxide sedation is available if needed. Post-treatment, you should be capable of driving yourself home and resuming your daily activities with minimal to no discomfort.