Don’t Fear Root Canals – Why You May Need One

According to the American Association of Endodontics, approximately 15.1 million root canals are performed annually. A root canal is an effective procedure to relieve tooth pain and save your natural tooth. Root canal treatment is usually needed if the nerve and pulp of your tooth become infected, inflamed, or irritated. The procedure involves cleaning out the interior of the tooth, filling the space, and then sealing the tooth. A crown is used to restore your tooth for additional protection, allowing your tooth to function as normal.

So, why do some people require root canal treatment? Here are a few of the reasons a root canal treatment may be necessary.

Repeat Dental Procedures

Multiple dental procedures on one tooth may be the reason you’re told you need a root canal. You could have reoccurring cavities in the same tooth, or a filled tooth could be broken or chipped. Once pulp damage occurs, it can’t heal itself and will require root canal treatment.

Tooth Decay

When bacteria inside your mouth produces acid that eats away at your teeth, it causes tooth decay, which can lead to cavities. However, when tooth decay isn’t treated, minor decay has the potential to turn into deeper decay, causing extreme pain, infection, or even tooth loss. When decay reaches the inside of your tooth, damaging the pulp, it can be very painful. To eliminate the pain and the infection, you may be told you need a root canal.

Cracked and Chipped Teeth

Chips, cracks, and other traumas to your teeth could be the reason you need root canal treatment. Many minor chips and cracks can be easily repaired with a bit of bonding material and perhaps a crown. However, if the damage to your tooth has extended to your tooth’s pulp, a root canal may be necessary.

There are several types of cracked teeth, including crazelines, fractured cusp, and split tooth. The type of crack will determine your dentist’s treatment plan.

Large Fillings

Small, untreated cavities can become larger over time, which can lead to the need for large fillings. Large fillings affect your tooth’s structural integrity, meaning you have a greater risk of infection and inflammation reaching the pulp as well as a tooth fracture. If this occurs, then root canal treatment may be required.

The good news is that root canal treatment can save your tooth. Keeping your natural tooth ensures you’re able to talk and chew without a problem, and it saves your natural appearance. If damage to your tooth is too severe, tooth extraction may be necessary. Root canal procedures are more comfortable than ever, and if you’re anxious about the procedure, talk to our dentists about our treatment methods so you know what to expect, and we can keep you comfortable.

If you’re experiencing persistent tooth pain, swollen gums, tooth sensitivity, or discoloration of your tooth, a root canal may be necessary. Cedar Walk’s endodontist, Dr. Anna Kirakozova specializes in root canal therapy, providing patients with the highest level of care.

Contact us to schedule your appointment at Cedar Walk Dentistry today.