Preserve Your Smile With Root Canal Therapy
Who is a candidate for root canal therapy?
Root canal therapy is recommended for individuals who have a severely damaged or infected tooth. Common reasons a patient may need a root canal:
- Decay: Deep cavities that reach the tooth’s pulp can cause infection and inflammation, necessitating root canal treatment.
- Trauma: Teeth that have experienced significant trauma, such as fractures or cracks, may require root canal therapy if the pulp is exposed or damaged.
- Infection: When a tooth is infected due to untreated decay or injury, the root canal procedure can save the tooth from extraction.
What benefits does this procedure provide?
- Pain Relief: Root canal therapy effectively alleviates toothache and discomfort caused by infection or inflammation, restoring oral comfort.
- Preservation of Natural Teeth: Root canal treatment helps patients preserve their natural tooth, which is often the best option for maintaining a healthy and functioning smile.
- Prevention of Infection Spread: By removing the infected pulp and sealing the tooth, root canal therapy prevents the infection from spreading to other teeth and the surrounding gums.
- Restoration of Tooth Function: After the root canal procedure, a dental crown is usually placed on the treated tooth, restoring its strength and function.
How do you know if you need a root canal?
While not all cases of tooth pain require root canal therapy, several signs indicate that the procedure may be necessary:
- Persistent Toothache: Severe, constant tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure, may indicate the need for a root canal.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Heightened sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers even after the stimulus is removed can be a sign of tooth nerve involvement.
- Swelling or Abscess: If you notice swelling or a pimple-like bump on the gums near the affected tooth, it may indicate a dental infection.
- Discoloration: Darkening or discoloration of the tooth may be a sign of internal damage.
