Root Canal Treatment Is Your Friend
We’ve all heard the gag: “I’d rather have a root canal…” This comedic line may be funny — but putting off needed root canal treatment is no joke. The idea that a root canal procedure always comes with complications and pain is simply not true. It’s without a doubt that infection or inflammation in the tooth’s pulp can be excruciatingly painful. It’s important to remember that having a root canal will get rid of this pain, and that the root canal itself does not cause the pain.
Need another reason not to put off a necessary root canal treatment? How about this: A natural tooth that’s saved via root canal treatment helps to avoid the problems that commonly occur when the infection was left too long, and the tooth must be removed. These problems include unwanted tooth migration or shifting, which can lead to difficulties in chewing; the need for bridgework or dental implants, which can be costly and complicated; and even the eventual loss of bone structure from the area of the missing tooth.
Causes of Root Canal Problems
Root canal problems originate from infection and inflammation of the tooth’s pulp tissue. One cause of infection is deep tooth decay. Untreated cavities will eventually allow bacteria to work their way down to the center of the tooth, where they can infect the pulp tissue.
Another path by which bacteria may take to reach the tooth’s pulp tissue is via chipped or cracked teeth. Any opening in the protective enamel coating has the potential to allow bacteria access to the tooth’s pulp.
Trauma to the tooth — the kind that might result from a sports injury or automobile accident — is also a major cause of pulp tissue damage. If this happens to you, it’s imperative to seek treatment immediately, both to try and save the tooth, and to also prevent future problems.
In some cases, extensive dental work may cause damage to the pulp tissue that will need to be treated via a root canal. Having multiple fillings or restorations on the same tooth increases the chances of this type of injury.
What to Expect During Root Canal Therapy
If you need root canal therapy, don’t worry – it’s one of the most routine and effective procedures practiced in dentistry and can usually be accomplished in just one visit.
The root canal procedure starts the same way a filling does: an anesthetic is administered to numb the tooth and the surrounding area.
After the area is numb, a small opening is made in the surface of the affected tooth to create a path to the pulp chamber and root canals. Tiny instruments are used to remove the dead and infected pulp tissue. The pulp chamber and empty canals are then cleaned, disinfected, and prepared to receive a filling of inert, biocompatible material. Lastly, adhesive cement is used as a sealant to close the opening in the tooth, preventing future infection.
Following root canal treatment, your tooth may feel some sensitivity or tenderness for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen are usually effective in relieving discomfort, but prescription medications may also be given if needed. During this time, it helps to avoid biting hard with the affected tooth. All of these symptoms should be temporary.
To further protect and restore the tooth to full function, in most cases it’s necessary to have a crown or other restoration placed on it. Restorations come in many forms, from traditional crowns made of gold to tooth replicas made of high-tech tooth-coloured material. In any case, you will have made an investment in preserving your dental health for years to come.
Signs and Symptoms of Root Canal Problems
How do you know if you need a root canal? Sometimes it’s achingly obvious. If you feel constant or severe pain and pressure in your mouth, or noticeable swelling and extreme sensitivity in your gums, then you need an evaluation and treatment right away. Another giveaway symptom of pulp tissue damage is sharp pain when you bite down on food. Lingering pain after eating hot or cold foods is also an indicator of potential trouble. If you notice any of these symptoms, you must schedule an examination as soon as possible.
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