Teeth become a darker shade because of damaged pulp
Untreated caries destroys the enamel and dentin, and reaches the pulp, that is in the central part of the tooth. This leads to its damage and often to a darkening of the tooth. The procedure necessary to save the tooth is called endodontic treatment.
Repeated dental procedures, hairline cracks, trauma or gum disease can cause inflammation or infection of the pulp, and this requires root canal therapy.
Damage
- The damage of the pulp may lead to pain ¬ often overnight, discoloration of the tooth prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold food and drink, pain while eating or swelling of the gum near the tooth , as well as the lymph nodes and swelling of the face .
- If root canal treatment isn't done, the infection spreads and the tooth will need to be extracted (pulled).
- Sometimes, however, there may be no symptoms. In these cases, the problem is usually diagnosed during dental examination or treatment of other dental problems.
Endodontic treatment
Endodontic treatment is a routine procedure.
- The dentist makes an opening in the crown of the tooth, determines the length of root canals with very small tools cleans them, wash and shape.
- Then they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha.
- The next stage should recover shape, size and function of the tooth. In order to prevent breakage of the tooth in the future, your dentist can place a crown on it.
- Root canal treatment may require several visits.
Hygiene
After the root canal treatment tooth continues to function like any other tooth and must be treated in the same way. Remember to clean your teeth for at least three minutes twice a day. Although it is devitalized it can develop caries. So visit your dentist for check-ups. The best thing is that by endodontic treatment the tooth can be saved and you keep your smile.
Root canal treatment is not painful and commonly a local anesthetic is used. During the treatment and for the first few days afterwards, it is possible to have a sensitivity which subsides gradually. It can be alleviated with various medications. However, if you have severe pain or pain caused by pressure that lasts more than a few days, call your dentist.
Naturally
- In the past, endodontic treated teeth often darken after treatment.
- With modern techniques, however, this rarely happens. If there is any change in the color of the tooth, there are ways to restore the natural appearance.
The only alternative to endodontic treatment is the extraction of the tooth. Then it has to be replaced by an implant, bridge or denture. Otherwise chewing will be disturbed and remaining teeth will be tilted or drifted. Take care of your natural, vital teeth, this is the best option.
