Root canal, also known as endodontic treatment, is a popular dental procedure done to save a tooth before it gets infected or damaged. The tooth’s “root canal” refers to the natural cavity where a soft area called pulp or pulp chamber is located.
Tooth nerves are found inside the root canal. The pulp may get damaged or infected due to botched dental procedures, cracks or tooth decay. When these happen, the nerves inside die. If you want to save your teeth from total decay and removal, it is best that you seek the services of an endodontic specialist in Littleton, CO for a root canal treatment.
The Importance of Saving Teeth
Tooth decay can be a serious condition, especially when untreated because bacteria can multiply and infect surrounding tissues. This can then lead to a more serious health condition and affect the face and bones.
In the past, a tooth infection requires only one procedure: removal. These days, root canal therapy can save even a badly infected tooth and repair it by removing pulp and nerves. Your dentist or endodontist will then protect the tooth by cleaning and sealing it before placing a crown to make it even stronger.
Here are some signs and symptoms that indicate you need a root canal:
- Broken, cracked, decaying or loosened tooth
- Sharp and spontaneous pain that is hard to pinpoint, which may be due to the infected pulp or formation of abscess at the root
- Discoloration and darkening
- Pressure and a dull ache
- Pain that extends to the ear, jaw areas and temples
- Sensitivity and pain when eating or drinking hot or cold foods and drinks
- Recurring spot on the gum that may discharge pus
- A toothache when biting, chewing or touching
- Swelling and tenderness of the gums
- Swelling of the face
There are also instances when the tooth pulp becomes damaged or infected without showing any of the above mentioned signs or symptoms. It is imperative that you regularly visit your dentist and have your teeth checked to avoid serious infections.
It Is Better to Have Natural Teeth
Saving a natural tooth has many advantages. You will not have to wear dentures and artificial teeth, for one. Natural teeth also offer a more efficient chewing and eating experience.
Taking the necessary precautions to save your natural teeth is your best alternative to having a root canal treatment. Tooth extraction should be your last resort. Once you have had your tooth extracted, you have to wear dentures with bridges or implants. This will then require more time and entails expensive procedures for treatment on the surrounding teeth and tissues.
A general dentist may do root canal procedures. However, if the issue is complicated, it is better to consult with an endodontist, or a dentist who specializes in root canal treatments. After your root canal, you will enjoy a restored tooth that not only works normally but also looks good. This tooth can then last a lifetime.
