Root Canals
Bacteria creates cavities in teeth, which cause pain when they progress to the point of affecting the blood supply and the nerves. In some cases, a root canal procedure will need to be performed to save a tooth and relieve the patient’s discomfort. People tend to shy away from root canals because they have the reputation of being painful. Modern techniques have made the procedure no more uncomfortable than getting a filling.
Signs a Root Canal is Needed
The most common sign of tooth trouble is pain, which presents in the following ways:
- Long-term pain in a particular tooth
- Pain that disrupts sleep
- Pain that lingers in the tooth for more than a few seconds after being exposed to heat or cold
If a person has a large cavity that does not cause pain, this may indicate the nerve has died from decay, and a root canal is needed.
The Root Canal Procedure
When a tooth becomes infected, the bacteria have no way to escape and the resulting pressure causes the person to feel pain. A root canal removes the portion of the tooth that has been destroyed by decay. This is followed by disinfection and cleaning of the root canal of the tooth to clear the infection. A root canal procedure may take more than one appointment, and the patient may also be required to take antibiotics.
Benefits of Root Canal
The foundation of modern dentistry is saving teeth whenever possible. Root canal therapy can often preserve a tooth that might otherwise have to be extracted. Keeping as many teeth as possible supports the bite and provides stability to the jaw. Teeth also fill out the face, and allow a person to smile and chew food normally.
An infected tooth does not always mean extraction. Consulting with a dentist will provide a diagnosis and outline possible options for the patient, which may include root canal.