Inside every tooth, beneath the white enamel and hard dentin, there’s a soft tissue called pulp. This pulp contains:
• Blood vessels
• Nerves
• Connective tissue If bacteria get inside the tooth and infect the pulp, you have a root canal infection. Illustration: Cross-section of a tooth showing enamel, dentin, and infected pulp.
What Causes a Root Canal Infection?
A root canal infection happens when bacteria invade the pulp. This can be caused by:
• Tooth decay (cavities that reach the pulp)
• A crack or chip in the tooth
• A fractured tooth root
• Repeated dental procedures
• Injury to the pulp (even if the outside looks fine) Root canal infections can develop without symptoms, so early detection is key! Illustration: Different causes of root canal infections.
What Happens if You Ignore a Root Canal Infection?
A root canal infection won’t go away on its own. If left untreated, it can lead to:
• Severe tooth damage – The infection spreads, destroying the tooth structure.
• Tooth loss – Extraction may be needed if too much of the tooth is damaged.
• Shifting teeth & bite problems – Missing a tooth can cause teeth to move out of place.
• Jawbone loss – Without a tooth, the jawbone in that area starts shrinking.
• Serious health risks – The infection can spread to the bloodstream, leading to sepsis, bone infections, or even heart problems. Illustration: Timeline showing the progression of an untreated root canal infection.
Signs You Might Have a Root Canal Infection
Watch out for these symptoms:
• Persistent tooth pain
• Sensitivity to hot and cold
• Swollen gums or jaw
• Pimple-like bump on the gums
• Tooth discoloration
• Cracked, chipped, or loose tooth
• Pain when chewing or applying pressure Illustration: Checklist of symptoms associated with root canal infections.
How is a Root Canal Infection Treated?
Standard Root Canal Treatment (RCT)
X-rays are taken to check the infection.
Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area.
A small opening is made in the tooth to remove the infected pulp.
The inside of the tooth is cleaned, shaped, and sealed.
A temporary filling is placed until the final crown is added.
Illustration: Step-by-step depiction of a root canal procedure.
A Modern Alternative: The GentleWave® Procedure
The GentleWave® Procedure is a newer, advanced treatment that:
• Uses less drilling and filing, preserving more of the natural tooth
• Reduces post-treatment pain
• Promotes faster healing
• Can often be completed in one visit! Illustration: Comparison of traditional root canal vs. GentleWave® Procedure.
Don’t Wait! Protect Your Oral Health
If you think you might have a root canal infection, schedule a dental checkup as soon as possible. Early treatment can save your tooth and prevent serious health risks. Take care and schedule your check up now by calling 703-241-7777 for an appointment.