Getting To Know Root Canal Therapy
One of the reasons we suggest a patient visit our office immediately after we recommend treatment is so their condition doesn’t worsen and require us to perform a more in-depth treatment. We want to do all we can to save your natural teeth. The last treatment we can provide to patients before a tooth extraction is needed is a root canal. Read on to learn more about this treatment and why it’s not as bad as you may imagine.
Reasons for a Root Canal
A root canal is used to restore the health of the tooth root. When the tooth root becomes infected or damaged, a root canal can help prevent the need for an extraction. We may recommend a root canal when:
- There is trauma to the tooth
- A large filling needs to be replaced and there is not enough tooth structure
- A cracked or broken tooth reaches the pulp inside the tooth
What to Know About This Treatment
There are often misconceptions about root canals. Thanks to movies and television shows, root canals are often shown as a treatment that leaves patients with discomfort. In fact, the opposite is true. Many patients experience discomfort before receiving the root canal and relief after the treatment is completed. When comparing a root canal to another treatment, the procedure can be thought of as a more involved filling.
The process of a root canal involves opening the tooth and removing the infected pulp. The root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized, a filling is placed into the tooth root, and the area is then sealed. Most patients will need a replacement tooth structure, such as a dental crown. Following treatment, it is important to be mindful of the area when eating and cleaning your teeth until your mouth is healed.
If you are experiencing discomfort in your mouth or we have recommended a root canal or other treatment, contact our office, which is located in Silverdale, WA, to schedule an appointment. Delaying a root canal or other treatment can lead to serious oral health complications and the need for additional measures, such as a tooth extraction. We want to help get your oral health back on track!
