When the pulp, the soft tissue inside the root canal, becomes irritated or infected, root canal treatment is required. The irritation or infection could be severe decay, multiple dental procedures on the teeth, a bad dental crown, or breakage. Furthermore, even if a tooth has no obvious chips or breaks, an injury to the tooth might induce pulp damage. If pulp inflammation or infection goes untreated, it might result in severe pain or an abscess.
Most root canal phobia stems from the treatment's unjustified negative image. However, root canals provide several benefits. The following are reasons that patients should not avoid undergoing a root canal.
When it comes to an infected tooth, patients usually have options: get an extraction or have a root canal. It is nearly always preferable to keep the teeth. When we pull a tooth, the gap left behind might be unappealing. It can also collect food debris, making it a breeding ground for bacteria. Eventually, the remaining teeth may begin to shift into that area, causing bite misalignment or discomfort. Shifting may be prevented by undergoing a root canal to preserve the tooth.
Root canals, despite their bad reputation, are a rather simple treatment. They work in the same way as any other cavity filling. Placing a filling occurs after decay is scraped out of a tooth by the dentist. Similarly, root canals treat cavities that have spread into the roots of the teeth. Therefore, the procedure takes a little longer and is more involved than a typical filling, but it is still relatively simple.
Root canals treat cavities that extend deep into the roots. These are the most painful cavities to have. Patients will probably feel sensitivity to hot and cold drinks or foods, and discomfort that extends all around the mouth is also possible. When dealing with the associated toothache, it can feel like the entire face is on fire. After undergoing a root canal treatment, all that discomfort fades away. The treatment will also eliminate concerns about the problem spreading. Cavities and infections that go untreated can lead to major health issues, such as heart disease.
If the tooth's enamel is mainly intact, the dentist can only perform a root canal and place a filling. If the tooth is chipped or fractured, though, it will need a crown covering. A crown is a porcelain cap that fits over the top of the natural tooth. A crown cannot cover the damaged tooth until after treating the infection. Instead, a root canal prepares the tooth for the crown.
Do not be concerned about pain during the process. Your dentist will administer a local anesthetic and try to keep you as comfortable as possible during treatment. If you have severe tooth decay or infection and have been recommended for root canal treatment, do not avoid it. It will help save your smile.
Request an appointment here: https://www.smilesbydesignhuntsville.com or call Smiles by Design, PC at (256) 660-3233 for an appointment in our Huntsville office.
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