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The Importance of Treating Sleep Apnea and the Advancements in Sleep Apnea Appliances

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on November 26, 2024

Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition affecting millions of individuals worldwide. Characterized by interruptions in breathing during sleep, this condition can lead to significant health problems if left untreated. Beyond the snoring and restless nights, sleep apnea has been linked to conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and chronic fatigue. Fortunately, advancements in sleep apnea appliances offer a non-invasive, effective way to manage the condition and improve quality of life.

This comprehensive guide explores why treating sleep apnea is essential, the dangers of ignoring it, and how modern sleep apnea appliances can provide relief.

Understanding Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep, causing temporary pauses in breathing. These interruptions can happen dozens or even hundreds of times a night, disrupting the sleep cycle and reducing oxygen levels in the blood.

Types of Sleep Apnea:

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common form, caused by a physical blockage of the airway, often due to relaxed throat muscles.
Central Sleep Apnea: Caused by a failure of the brain to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome: A combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea.

Why Treating Sleep Apnea is Crucial

Ignoring sleep apnea can lead to serious health consequences. Understanding the risks underscores the importance of seeking treatment.

1. Health Risks

Cardiovascular Disease: Untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, and irregular heart rhythms.
Type 2 Diabetes: Sleep apnea can exacerbate insulin resistance, a key factor in type 2 diabetes.
Weight Gain and Obesity: Poor sleep quality affects hormone levels, increasing hunger and cravings for unhealthy foods.

2. Cognitive Impairment

Interrupted sleep impacts memory, concentration, and overall cognitive function, increasing the likelihood of accidents and workplace errors.

3. Emotional Well-Being

Sleep apnea contributes to mood disorders such as depression and anxiety due to chronic fatigue and poor sleep quality.

4. Reduced Quality of Life

Fatigue, irritability, and diminished energy levels can take a toll on personal relationships, work performance, and overall enjoyment of life.

Traditional Treatments for Sleep Apnea

1. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)

CPAP machines are the most common treatment for sleep apnea. They deliver a constant stream of air through a mask, keeping the airway open. While effective, CPAP devices can be uncomfortable and inconvenient for many patients, leading to poor compliance.

2. Surgery

In severe cases, surgery to remove excess tissue or reposition the jaw may be recommended. However, surgery carries risks and is typically a last resort.

The Role of Sleep Apnea Appliances

Sleep apnea appliances, also known as oral appliances, provide a non-invasive, patient-friendly alternative to CPAP machines. These devices are custom-designed to fit comfortably in the mouth and address the underlying causes of obstructive sleep apnea.

How Sleep Apnea Appliances Work

The primary function of these appliances is to keep the airway open during sleep. They achieve this by:

Repositioning the Jaw: Moving the lower jaw slightly forward to prevent the tongue and soft tissues from collapsing into the airway.
Stabilizing the Tongue: Holding the tongue in place to prevent it from obstructing airflow.

Advancements in Sleep Apnea Appliance Technology

Modern sleep apnea appliances incorporate advanced technology to maximize comfort, effectiveness, and ease of use.

1. Custom-Fit Design

Dental professionals, like Dr. Skrobanek at GPS Dental, use 3D scanning and imaging technology to create appliances tailored to the unique anatomy of each patient’s mouth. This ensures a snug, comfortable fit that promotes better compliance.

2. Lightweight and Durable Materials

Newer appliances are made from lightweight, hypoallergenic materials that are durable and easy to clean.

3. Adjustable Features

Many appliances allow for micro-adjustments, enabling patients to find the most comfortable and effective position for their jaw and tongue.

4. Integration with Monitoring Devices

Some appliances are equipped with sensors that track sleep patterns and breathing, providing valuable data to patients and healthcare providers.

5. Improved Aesthetics

Today’s sleep apnea appliances are more discreet and less bulky, making them appealing for patients who may have been hesitant to use earlier designs.

Benefits of Sleep Apnea Appliances

For many patients, sleep apnea appliances offer several advantages over traditional treatments like CPAP machines:

Comfort and Convenience
Oral appliances are less intrusive and more portable, making them ideal for travel and daily use.
Quiet Operation
Unlike CPAP machines, appliances are silent, allowing for a more peaceful sleep environment.
Increased Compliance
Studies show that patients are more likely to consistently use oral appliances due to their ease of use and comfort.
Non-Invasive Solution
Sleep apnea appliances provide effective treatment without the need for surgery or cumbersome machinery.
Improved Sleep Quality
By addressing the root cause of airway obstruction, these appliances help restore uninterrupted sleep, leaving patients feeling more refreshed and energetic.

Choosing the Right Sleep Apnea Appliance

Selecting the right appliance requires consultation with a qualified dentist or sleep specialist. The process typically involves:

Evaluation and Diagnosis
A comprehensive sleep study or at-home sleep test is performed to assess the severity of sleep apnea.
Custom Fitting
Using digital impressions or 3D imaging, the dentist designs an appliance tailored to the patient’s needs.
Adjustment Period
Patients may need a short adjustment period to get used to the appliance and optimize its effectiveness.
Ongoing Monitoring
Regular follow-ups ensure the appliance remains effective and comfortable over time.

Success Stories: How Sleep Apnea Appliances Change Lives

For many patients, sleep apnea appliances have been life-changing. Improved sleep quality leads to better physical health, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. Here are a few ways these devices have made a difference:

Increased Energy Levels: Patients report feeling more rested and alert throughout the day.
Better Relationships: Eliminating snoring and irritability improves relationships with partners and family members.
Health Improvements: Many patients see reductions in blood pressure and other health risks associated with sleep apnea.

Final Thoughts

Sleep apnea is a serious condition that requires prompt treatment to prevent long-term health consequences. While CPAP machines remain a common solution, sleep apnea appliances offer a comfortable, effective alternative that aligns with the needs of modern patients.

If you or a loved one is struggling with sleep apnea, don’t wait to seek help. Consult with Dr. Skrobanek, your sleep specialist, to explore your options and start your journey toward better sleep and improved health today.

With advancements in technology and increased awareness, treating sleep apnea has never been easier or more accessible. Reclaim your nights and enjoy the benefits of uninterrupted, restorative sleep with the help of a custom sleep apnea appliance.

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers affordable dental care for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.

Porcelain Veneers San Antonio: You Can LOVE Your Smile!

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on February 20, 2024

A smile is a powerful expression that transcends cultural boundaries and language barriers, serving as a universal symbol of warmth, connection, and positivity. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, a genuine smile holds profound significance in human interaction, facilitating communication, fostering social bonds, and enhancing overall well-being. A smile has the remarkable ability to convey emotions such as joy, kindness, and empathy, instantly brightening the mood of both the giver and the recipient. It plays a pivotal role in shaping first impressions, influencing perceptions of trustworthiness, approachability, and likability. Furthermore, a smile is intricately linked to personal confidence and self-esteem, empowering individuals to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace. Whether shared in moments of celebration, comfort, or compassion, the simple act of smiling has the transformative power to uplift spirits, bridge divides, and create lasting connections in a world that thrives on human connection.

Your Smile is Important

The emphasis placed on a person’s smile stems from various factors, including social, psychological, and evolutionary reasons:

Communication: Smiling is a universal nonverbal cue that communicates happiness, friendliness, and approachability. A genuine smile can help establish rapport and foster positive social interactions, making it a crucial aspect of effective communication.
First Impressions: A smile is often the first thing people notice when meeting someone new. It can leave a lasting impression and influence how others perceive an individual’s warmth, likability, and trustworthiness.
Self-Confidence: A confident smile can boost self-esteem and contribute to a positive self-image. Feeling good about one’s smile can empower individuals to navigate social situations with greater ease and assertiveness.
Social Bonding: Smiling triggers the release of feel-good hormones like endorphins and dopamine, promoting feelings of happiness and connection. Sharing smiles with others strengthens social bonds and fosters a sense of belonging within communities.
Attractiveness: A healthy, attractive smile is often associated with youthfulness, vitality, and overall attractiveness. Many people aspire to achieve a beautiful smile as it can enhance their physical appearance and boost their romantic and social appeal.
Health Indicator: A smile can serve as an indicator of overall health and well-being. White, straight teeth are often associated with good oral hygiene and general health, while a lack of smiling may signal underlying emotional or psychological issues.
Cultural Significance: In various cultures, smiling plays a significant role in social customs, rituals, and expressions of hospitality. It can convey respect, gratitude, and sincerity in different cultural contexts.
Evolutionary Advantage: Smiling is believed to have evolutionary roots, dating back to our early ancestors. It may have served as a nonverbal signal to indicate non-aggressive intent, promote cooperation, and strengthen social bonds within hunter-gatherer communities.

Overall, the emphasis placed on a person’s smile reflects its multifaceted role in social interactions, emotional expression, and personal well-being across different contexts and cultures.

Do You Love Your Smile?

People may not love their smile, as a matter of fact, they may even dislike their smile for various reasons, including:

Cosmetic Concerns: Individuals may be dissatisfied with the appearance of their teeth due to issues such as discoloration, misalignment, gaps, or irregular shapes. These cosmetic imperfections can affect their confidence and self-esteem.
Dental Issues: Dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, missing teeth, or oral health issues can impact the aesthetics of a smile and cause discomfort or embarrassment.
Genetics: Some people are born with naturally uneven or discolored teeth due to genetic factors, which can contribute to dissatisfaction with their smile.
Trauma or Injury: Accidents or injuries to the mouth, such as chipped, cracked, or broken teeth, can result in a smile that individuals feel self-conscious about.
Aging: As people age, changes in the teeth, gums, and surrounding structures can occur, leading to a less youthful or attractive smile.
Social Pressure: Social media and societal standards of beauty often emphasize the importance of having a perfect smile, leading individuals to compare themselves to unrealistic standards and feel insecure about their own appearance.
Functional Concerns: In addition to cosmetic issues, some people may dislike their smile due to functional problems such as difficulty chewing or speaking, which can affect their overall quality of life.
Past Experiences: Negative experiences with dental treatment or bullying related to the appearance of their smile in the past can contribute to a dislike or fear of smiling.
Cultural or Ethnic Factors: Cultural perceptions of beauty and dental norms can vary widely, influencing how individuals perceive their own smiles within their cultural context.
Psychological Factors: Underlying psychological issues such as low self-esteem, body dysmorphia, or anxiety can also play a role in how individuals perceive their smile.

Addressing these concerns often involves a combination of cosmetic dental treatments, oral health care, and psychological support to help individuals feel more confident and comfortable with their smile.

You Can Love Your Smile: Porcelain Veneers Create Natural, Beautiful Smiles

Porcelain veneers offer a transformative solution for achieving a beautiful and natural-looking smile. Custom-crafted to enhance the shape, color, and alignment of teeth, veneers are meticulously designed to blend seamlessly with the natural dentition, creating a harmonious and radiant appearance. Made from high-quality porcelain material, veneers mimic the translucent properties of natural tooth enamel, resulting in a lifelike finish that reflects light and replicates the subtle nuances of a healthy smile. Moreover, the versatility of porcelain veneers allows for personalized customization, ensuring that each veneer is tailored to complement the individual’s facial features, smile line, and aesthetic preferences. Whether addressing stains, chips, gaps, or minor misalignments, veneers offer a durable and long-lasting solution that not only enhances the beauty of the smile but also restores confidence and revitalizes self-assurance. With porcelain veneers, individuals can confidently showcase a radiant and natural-looking smile that exudes charm, elegance, and timeless appeal.

What are Porcelain Veneers?

Here is the simple answer: Porcelain Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are permanently attached to the front of your natural teeth by your cosmetic dentist to transform your smile.

Porcelain Veneers create a strong, beautiful, smooth ceramic surface that transforms the outer layer of the tooth and can transform your smile.
Veneers can actually strengthen the tooth if it is fractured, chipped, or heavily worn down from grinding.
Veneers can dramatically change the look of your teeth when it comes to shape, texture, and color.
Porcelain Veneers can have life-changing results for people who dislike, are dissatisfied or self-conscious about their smile.

Porcelain Veneers San Antonio: What You Need to Know

Porcelain veneers can be a great option for enhancing your smile to look beautiful and natural, but there are a few things you should know before moving forward:

Consultation: Start by consulting with a qualified cosmetic dentist. They will assess your oral health and discuss your goals to determine if veneers are the right choice for you.
Procedure: The process typically involves multiple visits. During the first visit for porcelain veneers San Antonio, your cosmetic dentist will prepare your teeth by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the veneers. Then, they’ll take impressions of your teeth to create custom veneers. Temporary veneers may be placed while your permanent ones are being made. Finally, the permanent veneers are bonded to your teeth during a subsequent appointment.
Durability: Porcelain veneers are durable, but they’re not indestructible. Avoid biting hard objects like ice or using your teeth to open packages to prevent damage.
Maintenance: Veneers require regular maintenance, including daily brushing and flossing and routine dental visits for check-ups and cleanings. Avoid stain-causing foods and beverages to keep your porcelain veneers San Antonio looking their best.
Cost: Porcelain veneers can be expensive, and they may not be covered by dental insurance since they’re considered a cosmetic procedure. Make sure to discuss the cost with your dental team and explore payment options.
Longevity: With proper care, porcelain veneers can last for many years. However, they may need to be replaced eventually due to normal wear and tear.
Aesthetics: Porcelain veneers are custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, providing a natural-looking result. However, it’s essential to communicate your preferences with your cosmetic dentist to ensure you achieve the desired outcome.
Risks: While rare, complications such as tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, or veneer detachment can occur. Discuss any concerns with your dentist before proceeding with porcelain veneers San Antonio.
Alternative Options: Depending on your specific needs and preferences, there may be alternative cosmetic treatments to consider, such as dental bonding or teeth whitening. Your cosmetic dentist can help you explore all available options.
Commitment: Getting veneers is a long-term commitment. Once your natural enamel is removed, it cannot be replaced. Be sure you’re fully informed and confident in your decision before proceeding with the treatment.

Remember to discuss any questions or concerns you have with your cosmetic dental team to ensure you make an informed decision about whether porcelain veneers are right for you.

Related Articles:

Your smile is a very personal thing. So whether you want porcelain veneers applied to just one tooth or multiple teeth, we can help you achieve the smile you want. They can be customized to help them look natural in the context of your surrounding natural teeth. There’s a big difference in getting a couple of veneers vs. a smile makeover of 10 to 20 veneers. For patients who are completing a smile makeover with veneers, we like to take into account the entire smile, including the whole face, for the best aesthetic result. This gives the smile a symmetrical, natural look that’s personalized for that specific patient and can transform your smile.

Are You a Good Candidate for Porcelain Veneers?

You’ll need to be in good oral health to get any kind of veneer. To ensure you’re a good candidate, your cosmetic dentist will first examine your mouth for any underlying issues, like tooth decay. They may also take X-rays, to make sure your tooth structure is sound.

Some minor misalignment is fine, but if you have more seriously crooked teeth, it’s likely that you’ll need braces or clear aligners before you can go this route.

Anyone who grinds their teeth at night should seriously consider getting a mouth guard, to prevent damage to their veneers.

Unless you’re getting porcelain veneers San Antonio on all your teeth, it’s also a good idea to get your natural teeth whitened before you and your dentist choose the shade of your veneers. You’ll need touch-up whitening of your unveneered teeth every year or two, but this will help ensure that all your teeth match and look more natural.

Learn more about Porcelain Veneers from NewMouth.com

We Can Help You Transform Your Smile!

Show off your smile with porcelain veneers or we can combine our cosmetic dentistry services to create a full smile makeover! If you’re concerned about discolored, missing, chipped, misaligned, or cracked teeth, come talk to us to see what your best solution is for a natural-looking, healthy, beautiful smile. We can treat anything from disease to replacing missing teeth and create a new smile you can be proud of.

Porcelain veneers San Antonio create natural smiles and are one such procedure that we have used to help our patients achieve the look and function they want. If you have been dreaming of the perfect smile, reach out to your porcelain veneers expert, Dr. Skrobanek and his team of professionals in San Antonio to discuss how veneers could be the solution for you. Whatever your smile goals are, we can help you meet them at GPS Dental. Please call to schedule your Smile Consultation at 210-633-3477

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers affordable dental care for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.

Your Porcelain Veneers Expert in San Antonio Creates Natural Smiles

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on January 23, 2024

Porcelain Veneers are an option to create a natural-looking smile … not a big, un-natural, toothy grin!

Porcelain Veneer are one procedure that Dr. Skrobanek, your porcelain veneers expert in San Antonio, can use to help transform your smile and achieve the look & function you want from your smile. If you have been dreaming of the perfect smile, reach out to our team of professionals to discuss how veneers could be the solution for you.

Veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells that are placed in front of each individual tooth. If you’ve dealt with gaps, stains, or chips, and have good oral health, you’re a great candidate for porcelain veneers. Veneers can recreate the look and feel of a natural tooth, all while improving the strength, resilience, and appearance at the same time.

Placing porcelain veneers takes practiced, technical skill and major attention to detail. At GPS Dental, the office of Gary Skrobanek, DDS and his team of experts in cosmetic dentistry procedures – creating beautiful, long-lasting smiles that look natural is one of their favorite things! If you’ve ever looked at someone’s smile and thought “I bet those are veneers,” you certainly were not looking at one of our patients! Our practiced knowledge allows us to create enhanced, beautiful smiles – not big, unnatural toothy grins.

How Do Dental Veneers Create Natural Smiles?

Your teeth will be prepared for veneers first. Porcelain veneers create natural smiles because most times they take two visits for preparation and application. Dr. Skrobanek, your porcelain veneers expert, will make sure that the veneer is the perfect color for your smile and an impression will be taken of your teeth so your veneers can be created to fit perfectly in your mouth in your first visit. Usually, a bit of outer enamel is removed to allow for proper bonding between tooth and veneer. During your second visit to our office your veneers will be placed and light cured to ensure proper bonding and attachment to your natural teeth.

Related Article from HealthLine: What to Know Before Getting Veneers

Caring for your veneers is just like caring for your natural teeth. Brushing & flossing daily and visiting your dentist for your exam & cleaning are essential to keeping your veneers healthy and having them last for many years to come.

Veneers Create Natural Smiles because they can:

Restore cracked teeth
Straighten teeth
Make teeth a bright, white color
Cover stains
Replace missing teeth
Make teeth uniform in size and shape
Close gaps between teeth

It’s a wonderful way to enhance the look of your smile – giving you a Hollywood smile and also improving the health of your smile. It’s also important to keep in mind that veneers are permanent and long-lasting, so make sure and speak with Dr. Skrobanek about all your options when considering veneers.

Learn more from WebMD about Dental Veneers.

What are Porcelain Veneers?

Here is the simple answer: Porcelain Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are permanently attached to the front of your natural teeth by your porcelain veneers expert to transform your smile.

Porcelain Veneers create a strong, beautiful, smooth ceramic surface that transforms the outer layer of the tooth and can transform your smile.
Veneers can actually strengthen the tooth if it is fractured, chipped, or heavily worn down from grinding.
Veneers can dramatically change the look of your teeth when it comes to shape, texture, and color.
Porcelain Veneers can have life-changing results for people who are dissatisfied or self-conscious about their smile.

Customized Results with Porcelain Veneers

There’s a Difference: Porcelain vs. Composite Veneers

When it comes to types of veneers, most cosmetic dentists recommend porcelain veneers over those made of a composite material. Composite veneers are prone to discoloration and are far less durable than their porcelain counterparts, typically lasting between 5–7 years, compared to 10–30 years.

The Pros and Cons of Porcelain Veneers

Pros:

Traditional porcelain veneers are considered permanent, lasting up to several decades.
They can make your teeth look close to perfect, correcting minor gaps and alignment issues far faster than braces or clear aligners, like Invisalign. In fact, they’re sometimes dubbed “instant orthodontics.”
Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant (unlike composite veneers).
Their translucent quality makes them look very similar to natural teeth.
They’re highly customizable, with an array of shades to choose from.
You can get veneers for as few or as many teeth as you need to create a brighter smile, matching the veneers to the color of your natural teeth.
They can help downplay a gummy smile by making your tooth size more proportionate to the amount of gum you flash when you smile.

Cons:

In most cases, some of your natural tooth enamel has to be filed down to make room for the veneer, which makes the process irreversible. It can also increase tooth sensitivity, if these preparations are done too close to a nerve.
They can end up looking a little too perfect. Your dentist may even suggest adding some slight imperfections, to mimic natural teeth.
Dental veneers can hide a lot, but they can’t completely erase a major underlying issue.
Pressure from grinding can chip or crack the porcelain layers. If you grind your teeth at night, you’ll need to invest in a mouthguard.
If veneers crack or chip, they can’t just be repaired — they’ll need to be fully replaced, at an additional cost.
Veneers cost a few thousand dollars more than you’d pay for a combination of Invisalign and teeth whitening; however, they create a much more dramatic result.

Keep in mind that once your teeth are prepped for veneers, they will always need to be covered with a porcelain restoration. Meaning that once you get veneers, you will always have veneers. So, it’s really important to find a cosmetic dentist you are comfortable with, as this is a commitment and you want to be happy with your results.

Schedule Your Smile Consultation Today

Porcelain veneers create natural smiles and are one such procedure that we have used to help our patients achieve the look and function they want. If you have been dreaming of the perfect smile, reach out to your porcelain veneers expert, Dr. Skrobanek and his team of professionals in San Antonio to discuss how veneers could be the solution for you. Whatever your smile goals are, we can help you meet them at GPS Dental. Please call to schedule your Smile Consultation at 210-633-3477

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers affordable dental care for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment..

Dental Emergency: Root Canal Therapy May Relieve Your Tooth Pain

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on December 5, 2023

Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic therapy or simply a root canal, is used to treat infected pulp. Pulp is a soft tissue residing inside teeth and is composed of nerves, blood vessels, and joining tissues.

Many people are afraid of receiving root canal therapy. Although the process is longer and more invasive than a regular dental visit and check-up, it is far better than suffering the pain and discomfort of the diseased pulp. Root Canal Therapy involves removing the infected parts of the tooth and protecting it from future contaminations. Continue reading to understand more about root canals, the conditions when it is required and why it’s important to contact Dr. Skrobanek at GPS Dental to have it treated quickly!

What Prompts the Need for Root Canal Therapy?

Cracked, chipped, or fractured teeth are the most susceptible to infection. So, at the first sign of a damaged tooth, it is critical to repair it immediately. Unfortunately, if left untreated, food debris and bacteria can seep into the tooth, causing inner tissues or pulp to become decayed and infected.

As the tooth deteriorates, you will experience pain. You may also notice symptoms such as:

severe sensitivity to varying temperatures
pain when chewing
swelling of the gums
tenderness around the area
discoloration of the tooth

Should any of these signs arise, you are encouraged to seek immediate help. Letting the infection progress can lead to the loss of your tooth.

If you’re needing root canal therapy, there’s no reason to worry and every reason to move forward. Root canals are a dental procedure that eliminate bacteria from infected tooth roots and prevent reinfection because the infected pulp is removed and the surrounding area is carefully cleaned, filled, and sealed. Every year, millions of people undergo root canal therapy to treat diseased or damaged teeth. A root canal will relieve any oral pain you’ve been experiencing in that tooth and can make it healthy once again.

Related Articles:

Dental Treatments: Top 10 Most Common Dental Procedures
What is a Root Canal?

Have You Been Experiencing These Symptoms?

In addition, these symptoms may indicate that a root canal procedure is needed:

Persistent dental pain
A chipped or cracked tooth
Pimples on gums
Darkening of gums
Decay
Tooth Mobility or feeling loose

To get your oral health back to normal, and to eliminate any pain you may be experiencing, a root canal is often the next, and best, step to take. If left untreated, there’s no doubt you’ll lose the infected tooth and experience more dental problems and more pain. You can even spread the infection to the rest of your body, if left untreated.

How a Root Canal Procedure Can Help You

Root canal therapy can provide relief to someone experiencing dental pain, especially when the pain is associated with infection or damage to the pulp of a tooth. Here’s how a root canal can help:

Removal of Infected or Inflamed Pulp: Dental pain often occurs when the pulp (the innermost part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels) becomes infected or inflamed. A root canal involves removing the infected or damaged pulp, which eliminates the source of pain.
Pain Relief: Once the infected pulp is removed, the pain caused by the inflammation and infection is alleviated. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring that the patient is comfortable and does not feel pain during the treatment.
Preservation of the Natural Tooth: A root canal is a treatment aimed at saving a natural tooth rather than extracting it. Preserving the natural tooth is beneficial for maintaining proper oral function, aesthetics, and avoiding the need for more extensive dental procedures like tooth replacement.
Prevention of Spread of Infection: By removing the infected pulp, a root canal prevents the spread of infection to other areas of the mouth and the rest of the body. This helps in preventing more serious health issues and complications.
Elimination of Swelling and Discomfort: Dental infections can cause swelling and discomfort in the affected area. By addressing the infection through a root canal, swelling is reduced, and the patient experiences relief from discomfort and tenderness.
Resolving Sensitivity to Hot or Cold: Infected or inflamed pulp can make the tooth sensitive to hot or cold temperatures. After a root canal, the tooth is no longer responsive to temperature changes, leading to increased comfort during eating and drinking.
Improvement in Overall Oral Health: By treating the infection and preserving the natural tooth, a root canal contributes to better overall oral health. It eliminates the need for tooth extraction, preventing potential complications that can arise from missing teeth.
Durable and Long-Lasting Solution: After a root canal, the treated tooth is typically restored with a dental crown or filling, providing durability and long-term functionality. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental care, the treated tooth can last for many years.
Elimination of Toothache and Discomfort: The primary goal of a root canal is to eliminate your toothache and discomfort associated with dental pain. By addressing the underlying issue, patients experience significant relief and can resume normal oral function.

It’s important to note that while a root canal is a common and effective procedure, not all dental pain requires this treatment. If you are experiencing dental pain, it’s crucial to consult with Dr. Skrobanek for a proper diagnosis and treatment recommendation. Early intervention can prevent the progression of dental issues and alleviate discomfort.

More about Root Canals from WebMD

Related Article: Restorative Dentistry: Porcelain Crowns Can Restore Teeth

If you’re suffering from tooth pain, we can help!

We hope we’ve given you information to answer some of your questions about getting root canal therapy; however, if you have additional questions, we’d love to answer them! Please contact our office at 210-633-3477. If you’re in pain, from a toothache, please let us know when you call us, so we can schedule your appointment as a dental emergency and get you scheduled for treatment immediately!