Learning to Manage Your Dental Problems

The Importance Of A Root Canal Procedure When You Have An Infected Tooth

24 April 2019 by Charlotte Beck

When you hear that you need to have a root canal, you may get nervous and not want the procedure done. Many people who have never had a root canal are concerned about the pain it may cause. Unfortunately, the infection in your tooth pulp will not go away without root canal treatment. If you ignore the problem, you can end up with significant pain, a systemic infection, and a tooth that needs to be pulled. A tooth that can be saved by a root canal procedure should get the treatment to preserve the teeth in your mouth. You may be surprised at how easy the entire process is for most patients.

Deep Decay In Your Tooth

The interior pulp of your tooth can become infected when it is exposed to bacteria because of deep decay or a crack in your tooth. Once the pulp is inflamed because of infection, it is nearly impossible to stop the infection with antibiotics. The tissue must be removed from the interior of the tooth so that the tooth itself can be saved. 

When You Ignore the Need for a Root Canal

If your dentist tells you that you need to have a root canal, it's important to have the procedure done right away. If you wait too long, the tooth will probably have to be extracted instead. You don't need to be in pain for a root canal to be necessary. If the inflammation has already killed your nerve, you may not feel anything at all. In the reverse, you may experience serious pain in a tooth that needs a root canal.

What a Root Canal Procedure is Like

A root canal procedure is much like an extended cavity filling. The same procedures are used to numb your mouth and get you comfortable before the procedure. You'll be comfortable in the dentist's chair and can ask the dentist to stop when necessary. If you feel pain, an additional numbing agent will be used. You will hear the drill as the infected tissue is removed. Your tooth is then filled with synthetic material and sealed. A crown will be placed on your tooth to help prevent further decay.

A root canal procedure is not anything to fear. If you or a loved one is dealing with tooth pain and think you may need a root canal, call your local family dentistry provider for an appointment today.  A root canal will save a tooth that is badly infected from having to be pulled. 

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