A tooth consists of a crown and roots – the roots attach the tooth to the jawbone. A root canal is a cavity (an opening) in the center of your tooth. Inside the crown and the root stays the pulp. If pus forms inside the pulp, you can get it removed through root canal therapy. It would relieve the pain caused by a tooth infection or an abscessed tooth. Once the treatment is over, the dentist would clean and disinfect the treated area before filling it up correctly.
So, this therapy comes in handy when the pulp between your teeth faces a bacterial attack, and the cavity remains ignored for a considerable amount of time. Even the instances of cracks or damage in teeth led by an injury may also require this treatment. There can be some exceptions, too, where a Huntington, NY experienced dentist can recommend this. Let’s delve into them at once.
Symptoms for root canal treatment requirement
One of the everyday situations can be unrelenting toothache that spreads over your jaw, face, and other parts of the mouth. Or, suppose whenever you eat or drink something hot or cold, you feel deep sensitivity in your teeth. If your pain doesn’t subside within a few seconds, it’s better to set an appointment with your local dentist for examination. They might suggest root canal treatment. Swollen gums, swollen jaw, and pimples on gums are also a few scenarios where this specific procedure can come in handy.
Usually, you notice swelling in your gums when one of your teeth has become infected with pus. Gum pimples can also indicate an issue of infection. If not treated on time, the condition can worsen, leading to taste and smell problems. Other than this, dentists recommend a root canal in the event of tooth discoloration also, which usually occurs due to dental infection. Or, if your tooth has turned dark because of improper blood circulation, root canal therapy can fix it.
The experience with root canal treatment
One thing that most people fear about this treatment is that it will be painful because of how the infection feels. However, you must know that the pain felt during the procedure doesn’t stem from the treatment but rather the infection. The dentist can use local anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding area, making any pain felt go away once and for all. You can take over-the-counter medications to relieve any pain you may be feeling until it’s gone for good. After the procedure ends, you can experience some tenderness, which heals entirely over time.
Conditions where a root canal is a must
The injured or damaged pulp cannot heal and lead to the problem of dead tissue. If the cavity remains open for long, bacteria can make their way and invade the space. The same trouble is possible with incidents like missing filling and cracked teeth. Since bacteria can enter bone and spread infection through root openings, one must stop it. Otherwise, the bone will give in and break. Swelling around tissues will be a common sight or experience in that case, and it can also cause the tooth to leave its place. Some people also become vulnerable to hot and cold sensitivity. Or, there can be biting issues, ending up in throbbing pain.
Since all these affect your life quality, a root canal can be a dependable solution. It can curb infection from spreading and causing tooth loss or the need for tooth extraction. In some cases, people choose tooth extraction, though. It is more relevant when they are in deep pain or have no chance of tooth restoration. These problems can arise due to extensive decay and compromised bone health led by gum illness. But tooth removal often causes tooth shifting and issues of crooked teeth. Not only does it affect normal bite but also the appearance of your smile.
On the other side, root canal treatment can protect you from tooth loss and pain. Even if tooth restoration is not possible, dentists can do implants. Still, nothing compares to having a natural tooth in place.
Typical root canal dental health challenges
Like other methods, this dental treatment also comes with certain downsides. For example, sometimes, dentists may fail to treat all the root canals in a tooth. Due to this, the problem of infection can recur and eventually put the bone at risk. Then, the filling is another critical part of the procedure. If a dentist forgets to seal the gap properly, you may still get an infection. Although it can be rare, some experts also talk about the risk of roots getting cracked or broken during the procedure. Because of these reasons, it becomes even more necessary to get someone experienced and skilled to do this job for you.
Preventive dental health measures
Since your oral and dental hygiene has to be a priority, you cannot afford to take it lightly. If you don’t want to deal with decay, gum illness, or infections, clean your teeth once in the morning and before going to bed. Choose a good toothpaste, something with fluoride can be the right pick. Toothbrush selection is also a thing. The bristles have to be strong yet soft on your gums or teeth while scrubbing the surface. Using floss can prevent plaque buildups, which often cause an acidic reaction, affecting enamel quality and eventually loss of teeth. Then, stick to a healthy diet devoid of sweetened items as much as possible.
All these should be a part of your daily practice, but it doesn’t mean you can avoid dental clinic visits. Your teeth will be vulnerable to regular tear and wear due to overuse. You must also remember that even routine cleaning habits cannot ensure proper safety for all the teeth, especially those located at the back. You would need experts’ help with cleaning and good care. When examining your teeth condition, they can fix any other issues forming or are likely to appear soon, saving you from significant troubles with your dental health.
