While root canals have a bad reputation for being painful, this misconception is largely based in the past. Modern technology has made root canals more comfortable and efficient than ever before. Instead of causing pain, they actually alleviate the pain associated with an infected or otherwise damaged tooth. Keep reading to learn more about root canal therapy and how to know if you need it.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a procedure that treats the pain caused by a tooth infection or abscess. During the procedure, we remove the compromised pulp from inside the tooth. Then, we clean and disinfect the area inside the tooth. Lastly, we seal up the tooth with a filling. Not only does root canal therapy alleviate the pain, it also preserves your natural tooth and prevents the need for a tooth extraction.
How Do I Know If I Need a Root Canal?
If you have a cavity or other damage that is left untreated, you may need root canal therapy. The most common reasons our team at Southern Dental Fort Smith recommends a root canal are advanced decay and infection, severe cracks, or breakage due to trauma. We perform root canals in order to stop the progress of damage and save your natural tooth before it’s too late.
While physical damage to the tooth is usually easier to spot, it can be harder to tell when a tooth is badly decayed or infected. Common signs that you may need a root canal include toothaches that won’t go away, increased sensitivity to hot and cold, swollen gums and jaw, tooth discoloration, or a loose tooth.
To ask our team any additional questions about root canal therapy or to schedule an appointment at Southern Dental Fort Smith, please contact us today!
Root canal image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0
