Historically, if you had a tooth afflicted with a damaged nerve, the likely outcome would be tooth loss. However, modern dentistry offers a solution known as root canal treatment, which can preserve your tooth. Root canals are a straightforward procedure that typically requires one to three office appointments. The greatest benefit is that a timely root canal can rescue both your tooth and your smile!
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF A ROOT CANAL?
Once a tooth has fully emerged through the gums, its nerve becomes non-essential for the tooth’s everyday health and function. Its primary role is sensory, providing the ability to sense temperature changes, such as hot and cold. Whether a tooth has a nerve or not doesn’t significantly impact its day-to-day performance.
However, when a tooth is cracked or develops a deep cavity, harmful bacteria can infiltrate the pulp tissue, leading to an infection within the tooth. If this infection isn’t promptly addressed, it can give rise to an abscess. Neglecting this issue can not only harm the jawbones but also pose risks to your general well-being. Without appropriate treatment, the affected tooth may need to be extracted.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS THAT A ROOT CANAL IS NEEDED?
Not all teeth in need of root canal therapy necessarily cause pain. Nevertheless, indications that you might require a root canal encompass severe toothache, discomfort when chewing or when pressure is applied, enduring sensitivity or pain when exposed to hot and cold stimuli, noticeable darkening or discoloration of the tooth, as well as swelling and tenderness in the adjacent gums. If you encounter any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to get in touch with your dentist.
