13 Nov Understanding Root Canals and Their Benefits
General dentistry helps maintain your oral health, and it plays a key role in overall dental wellness. Dentists diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions affecting your teeth and gums. One standard procedure is the root canal, which addresses issues inside the tooth. It is a treatment designed to save a natural tooth. Here is more information about root canals and their benefits:
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental treatment. This procedure removes infected pulp from inside a tooth, and it cleans and seals the space. The pulp is the soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels, so its removal relieves pain from infection or inflammation. When the pulp becomes damaged, bacteria begin to multiply within the pulp chamber. This procedure saves a tooth, and it may prevent it from being extracted.
When Is This Treatment Chosen?
When the soft pulp inside a tooth becomes inflamed or infected, a dentist might recommend a root canal. This condition has several causes, and deep decay is a typical reason. Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth also increase risk. A crack or chip in the tooth is another potential entry point for bacteria.
Trauma to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks. The pulp’s inflammation or infection leads to noticeable symptoms. When these signs appear, a dental visit may be required. A dentist can examine the tooth and take X-rays to see the extent of the damage.
Signs indicating the need for this treatment include:
- Severe toothache when chewing or applying pressure
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Swelling and tenderness in nearby gums
How Is it Performed?
The dentist first takes an X-ray to see the shape of the root canals and check for infection. After the area around the tooth is numbed, a small access hole is drilled into the tooth. The dentist removes the damaged pulp, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned. This process removes bacteria and related debris.
Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it is sealed. A rubber-like material is used to fill the interior space, and a temporary filling is placed to close the access hole. A permanent filling or crown will be placed later, and this protects the tooth and restores its function. This final step is very important for the tooth’s long-term health.
What Are Its Benefits?
A primary benefit of general dentistry is pain relief. The procedure removes the infected nerve tissue, which is the source of the toothache. You can return to normal biting and chewing without discomfort. This treatment also stops the infection from spreading to other teeth or into your jawbone.
Saving the natural tooth is another advantage. It helps maintain your natural smile, and it allows you to continue eating the foods you enjoy. While dental implants are effective, preserving a natural tooth is often a good option. It also:
- Promotes proper spacing and alignment with other teeth
- Prevents the need for more complex dental work later
Schedule General Dentistry Today
Untreated tooth infections will not go away on their own, and they can lead to more serious health issues if the infection spreads. This procedure is a straightforward way to address the problem at its source. It allows you to keep your tooth and protect your overall oral health. Contact a dentist today to schedule an appointment and discuss your options.
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