It may be tempting to ignore a toothache and hope that it goes away on its own. However, a toothache is something that should never be ignored. It can indicate that the pulp of the tooth is inflamed or infected. If this is the case, the issue will not resolve on its own. It may only worsen over time, compromising not only the tooth but your overall health as well. Our office will help to restore your oral health and save the compromised tooth with a root canal.
Who Needs a Root Canal?
A root canal is necessary when the pulp inside if a tooth is inflamed or infected. This can happen for many reasons. Infections often result from untreated decay or tooth damage. These issues can let bacteria into the tooth. You may also require a root canal if the pulp has been negatively affected by several dental procedures or trauma. Without treatment, the inflammation and infection can result in significant pain and a potentially dangerous abscess.
Aren’t Root Canals Painful?
Many people get nervous when they hear that they need a root canal. They think that the procedure is invasive and painful. This just is not the case. Before anything is done, you are given a local anesthetic. For those who are extremely anxious, sedation may also be an option to help you feel much more comfortable. Some pain can be expected after the procedure is complete, but it should begin to lessen and eventually disappear.
Common Myths About Root Canal Treatment
The thought that root canals are painful is not the only misconception that patients often have about root canals. Often, people think it is easier, and better, to have an infected tooth extracted rather than treated. Extracting a tooth causes more trauma to your mouth. Moreover, then you have to worry about having the extracted tooth replaced, which adds even more to the total cost of your treatment. A root canal is not only less invasive, it also preserves the tooth.
Another common belief is that root canals are the cause of illness. In reality, what can cause illnesses is not treating your tooth infection. Without treatment, an abscess can form, and bacteria can get into your bloodstream. As they travel throughout your body, the bacteria can cause serious illnesses and other complications.
How Long Will My Treated Tooth Last?
Once a tooth has been treated with a root canal, it can last for the rest of your life. In a majority of cases, teeth treated with root canals are completely restored. A permanent filling or crown helps to protect the tooth as well as strengthen it so that it can perform all of its normal functions without any problems. In some cases, a root canal can fail. Failed root canals do not automatically mean that you need to have the tooth extracted. Instead, the tooth can often retreat. In some cases, endodontic surgery may be necessary. If your root canal does fail, we can help determine the best way to proceed.
Don’t ignore a toothache. Call us today to schedule your appointment.