Encouraging Toddler Dental Care

« Back to Home

Relieving Pain And Restoring Dental Health With Root Canals

Posted on

If your dentist told you that you need a root canal because of a severely damaged tooth, you may have questions about this common procedure. Root canals help save teeth from extraction and are an effective treatment option for restoring your dental health. While your family dentist can perform a root canal, they may refer you to an endodontist, who is a dentist specializing in this type of procedure. Here are some ways a root canal can help maintain optimal oral health.

Treating Infection And Pain Relief

One of the most common reasons for a root canal is to address tooth infections and to provide pain relief. If your tooth becomes decayed or broken or if your tooth pulp gets infected, you may experience severe pain, develop an abscess, or notice tooth sensitivity in response to hot or cold foods and drinks. During a root canal, your dentist will remove the pulp and then clean the inside of the tooth.

After the tooth has been cleaned with an antimicrobial solution, the space will be sealed with a filling. Once the infection has been eliminated, your pain will decrease, thus preventing the need for an extraction. It is also important to note, that before your procedure, you will be given a local anesthetic injection so that you do not feel any discomfort. 

Shifting Prevention And Preserving Oral Health

Another benefit to root canals is that it helps prevent your other teeth from drifting. If your tooth is extracted, your other teeth may shift out of place, causing bite problems and even bone loss. After the infectious pulp has been removed from the tooth and the space filled with composite, your dentist will place a crown on your treated tooth which will help provide protection, strength, and a natural appearance. In addition, preserving your teeth will also help keep your jawbone healthy and prevent alterations in your facial appearance. Once your teeth have been extracted, your face may look hollow or sunken in. 

If you have a severe dental infection or abscess or if you are in severe pain, consider the above benefits of a root canal. Before your treatment, your dentist will perform a comprehensive dental examination, take X-rays, and evaluate your oral health situation. They will explain the entire process, walk you through the steps of the treatment, and reassure you that you will remain comfortable during the procedure. Saving your tooth can restore your dental health so you can keep your bright smile.

For more information on root canals, contact a company near you.


Share