When Is a Root Canal Needed?

Modern dentistry advancements have made root canal treatment virtually painless and much less stressful than in the past. But what does the procedure entail? And when is root canal therapy needed? Read on to learn about this restorative dental treatment in the context of your tooth’s anatomy.

What Is Root Canal Therapy?

A tooth’s pulp is its innermost layer. The pulp is a soft bundle of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes inflamed or infected, it can cause pain and lead to an abscess, which is a buildup of pus, bacteria, and debris. If the tooth is not treated by a dental professional, infection can spread to other parts of the mouth and the body.

At Oakboro Family Dentistry, we can determine whether your tooth can be saved with root canal therapy or if an extraction is a better option to protect your oral health. For teeth that can be preserved, root canal therapy will alleviate your pain and restore your tooth’s function.

First, we’ll make sure you are comfortable and understand the procedure. Once the affected area is numbed with anesthetic, we will use special tools to remove the damaged pulp and clean out any infection and debris. The pulp is necessary when a tooth is developing, but a mature tooth can survive without its pulp. Your tooth will then be filled with a special biocompatible dental material and sealed to protect it from bacteria. Depending on the extent of damage, you may need a dental crown to improve the strength of your tooth.

When Is a Root Canal Needed?

A few things can cause an inflamed or infected pulp, such as severe decay, repeated dental procedures, or cracking your tooth. Mouth trauma can also trigger inflammation or infection even if there are no apparent chips or breaks in the tooth.

Contact us today if you experience warning signs like mouth swelling, increased tooth sensitivity, a deep aching in your tooth, or a bad taste in your mouth. The only way to know for sure whether you need root canal therapy is for one of our expert dentist to examine your tooth.

Safe & Effective Dental Treatment in Oakboro, NC

Do not put off necessary oral healthcare, whether it be routine preventive care or a restorative procedure like root canal therapy. Root canal therapy can save your natural tooth and relieve your pain. If the dentist intimidates you, let our friendly team know. We strive to help each patient feel safe and comfortable in our care, and will answer all your questions. So contact Oakboro Family Dentistry today to restore your dental health!

Categorised in: Restorative Dentistry