When a tooth has been affected by advanced decay or an injury that exposes the tooth’s inner core to the oral cavity, it may be possible to save the tooth with root canal therapy.
Because the tooth can die if bacteria invade the pulp tissue in its core, root canal therapy prevents this outcome by removing the pulp tissue. This allows the patient to keep the biological tooth, which is always preferable, even with advances in tooth replacement technology.
Patients may be apprehensive about root canal therapy, but that is unnecessary and typically based on false information. To get the facts about root canal therapy, talk to your dentist.
What does root canal therapy involve?
In providing root canal therapy, a dentist will create a small hole in the tooth in order to access the pulp chamber to remove infected pulp tissue. After all of the pulp has been removed, the empty chamber is thoroughly cleaned to remove any remaining bacteria.
The empty pulp chamber is filled with an inert rubber-like substance to prevent bacteria from repopulating the area.
Prior to the root canal, a local anesthetic is administered at the site, and patients may also opt for sedation for maximum comfort.
At a later date, the treated tooth will also be fitted with a dental crown for additional protection against breakage.
Will a root canal hurt?
It’s important to recognize that, despite what you may have heard to the contrary, root canal therapy does not typically result in severe discomfort. Most patients describe the sensation as similar to having a cavity filled.
If you do have ongoing or severe pain after root canal therapy, follow up with your provider for further evaluation.
What are the benefits of root canal therapy?
The primary benefit of root canal therapy is that the treatment preserves a tooth that might otherwise be targeted for extraction. Even though we now have devices that offer a structurally complete tooth replacement, it’s always optimal to keep your biological teeth whenever possible.
If root canal therapy has been recommended in your case or if you feel that you would benefit from this treatment, call DeSanti & Linden Dentistry to schedule your initial consultation.
