If you’re grappling with a tooth harboring a severe infection, your dentist may propose a root canal as the optimal solution for saving and restoring the tooth. Despite its unwarranted reputation for discomfort, root canal therapy is, in fact, a nearly painless procedure. The urgency of addressing an infected tooth through a timely root canal cannot be overstated, as delaying this treatment can have detrimental consequences for your overall oral health. Delve into the details of root canals and the reasons why seeking prompt intervention is crucial for maintaining your oral well-being.
How Does the Root Canal Procedure Work?
At the onset of the procedure, your dentist will administer a local anesthetic to ensure the area around the tooth is numb, preventing any pain during treatment. Subsequently, the infected tooth pulp will be meticulously removed to alleviate any pain you may be experiencing and to halt the spread of infection.
Once the interior of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it will be filled with gutta-percha, a rubber-like substance. To seal off the tooth, prevent potential future infections, and restore its aesthetic and functional aspects, your dentist will then place a dental crown or filling.
Why It’s a Bad Idea to Wait to Get a Root Canal
Delaying the treatment of an infected tooth can lead to the spread of the infection within the oral cavity and potentially into the bloodstream, causing harm to other parts of the body. This can result in severe health issues, including inflammation in the heart, a brain abscess, or pneumonia.
Moreover, if the tooth reaches a state beyond repair, extraction becomes necessary. Subsequently, the need for a replacement tooth further raises the overall cost of treatment.
3 Benefits of Root Canals
In addition to averting complications in other parts of your mouth and body, opting for a root canal offers several benefits, such as:
- No extraction required: Root canal therapy eliminates the need for extracting the infected tooth, preventing dental shifting and jawbone deterioration. This not only preserves your natural teeth but also saves both time and money associated with the replacement of missing teeth.
- Pain-free smile: By removing the infected pulp, which contains nerves, root canals put an end to the pain caused by the infection, ensuring a pain-free and comfortable smile.
- Long-term solution: When performed correctly, a root canal can provide a lasting solution, potentially lasting a lifetime. This means you can enjoy the benefits of a full smile while maintaining your natural bite.
While root canals are often perceived as one of the more daunting dental treatments, there’s no need for fear. Contrary to popular belief, this procedure is no more intimidating than having a substantial cavity filled. In fact, a root canal serves to rescue your smile from further harm and contributes to overall oral and bodily health!
About the PracticeFor effective care when dealing with a severely infected tooth, the proficient team at 333 Dental Care is ready to assist. With a roster of four highly experienced dentists, their commitment is to guide you toward achieving a beautiful smile. If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, pain, or wish to schedule an appointment for root canal therapy, you can contact the 333 Dental Care team at (580) 782-2552 or visit their website for more information.