If you have inflamed gums and notice pimple-like bumps or discoloration on the gum area, you might need a root canal from an endodontist. Gum inflammation is a sign of an infected tooth. Sometimes, gums can become inflamed after vigorous brushing or flossing. Other triggers are hormonal changes or taking certain medications, but these are different. Inflamed gums due to infection remain swollen and feel tender and painful to the touch.
What is an endodontist?
There is more to the mouth than merely pearly white teeth. An endodontist spent years beyond the general dentistry degree program to study what lies beneath the exterior of teeth. They are a dental specialist who completed additional training to diagnose tooth pain and perform root canal therapy. An endodontist focuses on diagnosing and treating issues that affect the core of the tooth. These include the inner structure, function, and diseases of the teeth.
How can an endodontist treat tooth infection?
Treatment for gum inflammation depends on the cause and how severe the swelling and pain are. An imaging test will likely be necessary to pinpoint the source of the pain, like an inflamed nerve or abscess. In this case, root canal therapy will be advisable to resolve the underlying issues in the gums. An endodontist will have the experience to deal with inflamed gums.
Root canal for eliminating gum inflammation
Poor oral hygiene practices and other factors, such as trauma to the mouth, can result in deep decay or severe tooth infection. The disease can spread from the tooth’s roots into the periodontal ligament, penetrating the gum area. Once this happens, painful gum inflammation can occur. Root canal therapy can ease the pain. It is a dental procedure designed to save the damaged tooth whenever possible. After undergoing root canal treatment, a patient must maintain proper dental care habits to keep the gums healthy.
Gum swelling after root canal
It is not uncommon to experience some pain and gum inflammation following a root canal. The treated area may feel tender and sore to the touch for a few days as the body works to heal itself from the procedure. Taking the prescribed pain reliever will help alleviate some of the discomfort and swelling.
Inflamed gums after root canal therapy generally subside within a few days. However, the exact time for a patient to recover depends on several factors such as overall health and individual risk factors. Patients should pay attention to any new swelling or inflammation that does not seem to go away. If the pain persists longer than 72 hours even after taking pain medications, patients should contact the endodontist.
An endodontist can help
If you develop a severe tooth infection (which led to swollen gums), a root canal may be necessary. An endodontist is highly skilled in performing root canal procedures to remove infections inside the tooth. They will save the damaged tooth by taking the infected pulp out. The endodontist will clean and disinfect the space. Then, it will be filled and sealed up to prevent any future damage.
Request an appointment or call Endodontic Specialists, PC at 402-401-7777 for an appointment in our Omaha office.
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