Have you been told that you’re in need of root canal treatment? You may be dreading this procedure. However, it isn’t actually something you need to be concerned about. Root canal treatment is a common procedure that helps to restore teeth that have been decayed, injured, or otherwise damaged. Ultimately, it can prevent the need for a tooth extraction. It is time to put the bad reputation of root canal treatment behind you and see it in a more positive light. Read on to learn more about root canals, why they are necessary, and their benefits.
Why Is Root Canal Treatment Needed?
Root canal treatment is usually used to treat a deep cavity that has spread far within the tooth. It is also sometimes needed if the tooth has sustained a significant crack or chip. This is because when a crack or fracture extends to the root of a tooth, this makes it more likely that you could experience an infection. The only way to ensure that the tooth can stay put is to perform root canal treatment.
Root canal treatment involves your dentist creating a small opening in your tooth and removing the damaged and infected tissue from within. The tooth is then thoroughly cleaned, filled, and sealed with a biocompatible material. Often times, a crown is placed overtime of the tooth to provide extra security.
Why Is Root Canal Treatment a Positive Thing?
No one looks forward to root canal treatment, but the truth is that there are a variety of benefits of the procedure that are worth celebrating. Here are just some of the most notable ones.
Prevents Tooth Extractions
Having root canal treatment means that your tooth is still healthy enough to preserve. The recovery period for an extraction requires a lot more time and patience, and you will have an empty space in your grin afterward. By getting root canal treatment, you get to keep your natural tooth which is ultimately what the dentist wants.
Root Canal Treatment Relieves Pain
You might have heard that root canal treatment is very painful, but the truth is that the procedure relieves pain. If you have an infected tooth that is causing discomfort, root canal treatment can reduce this by eliminating the infected pulp and sealing your tooth with a filling and dental crown.
No Replacement Teeth
If you need to have a tooth extracted, you’ll likely have to consider tooth replacement options to maintain the health of your smile. However, this process is much longer and more costly than having root canal treatment.
Root canal treatment isn’t something to fret about. This common procedure is here to restore your oral health and leave you smiling again!
About the Author
Dr. Jennifer Pham earned her dental doctorate from Temple University School of Dentistry. Since then, she has advanced her education through numerous continuing education and postgraduate trainings, like at the renowned Las Vegas Institute of Neuromuscular and Restorative Dentistry. She is affiliated with the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. To learn more about root canal treatment or to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call (703) 666-3867.