When Do You Need a Root Canal?

The root of your teeth is surrounded by canals, which are narrow spaces that contain blood vessels as well as nerve fibres that supply nourishment and a sense to the teeth. The nerves and vessels play an important role in dental health, and if they are damaged or decayed they can cause discomfort. A root canal is an oral procedure used to treat a tooth that has been damaged by removing pulp within the tooth and then closing the canal with a filler to seal the opening. This procedure could preserve your teeth for the rest of your life. ¹

Root canals can be performed by dental professionals, such as general dentists or dentists, commonly referred to as Endodontists. If you’re experiencing pain or sensitivity, you must first consult your dentist who can recommend the most appropriate option which could involve the procedure of a root canal.

What Causes You to Need a Root Canal?

The dentist can suggest a root canal if your tooth exhibits indications of infection or damage to the pulpal nerve. When a tooth has been damaged or has a large cavity, bacteria can be likely to get into the pulp and, if left untreated, could cause serious infections as well as bone loss, or even the death of the tooth.

Human Tooth Anatomy

The most frequently cited causes for damaged nerves in the pulp can be found in:

A tooth injury can cause the nerves being damaged, such as an injury from a sports activity to the mouth.
The physical irritation is caused through an extensive dental decay (a cavity) which reaches the nerve, or via deep fillings. If this occurs the harmful bacteria may get to the nerve and pulp which can lead to decay and infection.
A tooth that has been fractured or cracked affects the pulp.

Signs & Symptoms of Pulpal Damage

The symptoms and signs of pulpal injury can vary from person to person however, in most cases, patients suffer from: ³

Tooth pain when chewing
Tees that are sensitive to cold or hot drinks. hot or cold drinks
The appearance of the face or gums
Greying or discoloration of the teeth
The tenderness and swelling of gums nearby
The tooth is drained

There are times when there aren’t any symptoms there. The scheduling of regular preventative visits is essential because your dentist can help to detect any possible issues.

Root Canal Procedure & Treatment Options

A root canal may be a straightforward, routine procedure to ease dental pain and maintain the strength of the tooth.

Before you undergo the procedure your dentist will offer you anaesthetics that reduce the pain and numb the area. discomfort. The dentist will then remove the affected area from the dental canal. They will cleanse and prepare the canal for the root. A substance is then used to seal the canal and a crown is then placed to seal the opening on the tooth’s top.

Most of the time the tooth that has had a root canal treatment will last for a long time without any issues. However, complications like teeth pain and infection may develop. If this happens it is recommended to visit your dentist, who will help you through the next actions. ²

When to Contact Your Dentist

Consult your dentist right away if you experience an ongoing dental pain, swelling or discomfort within the gums or mouth. Root canals are usually advised when swelling or pain stems from an infection deep inside a tooth. If not treated this kind of tooth abscess can lead to tooth loss and tooth loss, death of the pulp and the loss of the tooth .

Conclusion

There are numerous misconceptions regarding root canals, one of them being that they are painful. The intention of the dentist performing the procedure isn’t to inflict pain on you and to preserve your tooth and get back to your the best dental health. The advancement of technology and methods has made root canals relatively pleasant and efficient procedures.

A root canal procedure can help keep your natural smile in good shape and relieves pain caused by chewing, allowing you enjoying the foods you enjoy, and reduce the need for continuing dental treatment.