When you’ve been told that you’re in need of root canal therapy, you may be dread having such an “excruciating” procedure. However, this actually isn’t the case. Root canal therapy is a very common procedure that can help to restore teeth that have been decayed, injured, or otherwise damaged and prevent the need for an extraction. It is best to put root canals’ bad reputation aside and look at it in a more positive light. Continue reading to learn more about why root canals are necessary and their benefits.
Why Are Root Canals Necessary?
Root canal therapy is usually used to treat a deep cavity that has spread far within the tooth. It is also sometimes necessary 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 in the jaw without staying high-risk is to perform a root canal.
A root canal involves your dentist creating an opening in the tooth and removing damaged and infected tissue from the inside. The tooth is then thoroughly cleaned, filled, and sealed with a biocompatible material. Often times, a crown is placed overtop of the tooth to provide extra security.
Why Is Root Canal Therapy a Good Thing?
While no one looks forward to getting root canal therapy, the truth is that there are various benefits of the treatment that you should be happy about. Here are just a handful of them:
You Don’t Need an Extraction
Having root canal therapy means that your tooth is in healthy enough shape to keep! The recovery period for an extraction requires a lot more time and patience, and you will have a gap in your smile afterwards. By having root canal therapy, you get to keep your natural tooth which is ultimately what your dentist wants!
Root Canal Therapy Relieves Pain
The rumor is that tooth canal therapy is very painful, but the truth is that they actually relieve pain. If you have an infected tooth that is causing you lots of trouble, your dentist removing the infected pulp and sealing your tooth with a filling and crown will relieve you of your agony.
No Replacement Teeth
In most cases, if you undergo a tooth extraction, you will need to look at tooth replacement options to keep your smile in good health. However, this process will take much longer and is most costly than undergoing a simple root canal.
Root canal therapy isn’t something to fret about. This common procedure is here to restore your oral health and leave you smiling once again!
About the Author
Dr. Renee Corbitt is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for over three decades. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio Dental School and is committed to continuing education to keep her knowledge and skills sharp. Currently, she is a proud member of numerous professional organizations, including the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Academy of Orofacial Pain. For more information on root canal therapy or to schedule an appointment at her office in Fort Worth, visit her website or call (817) 294-8821.