Why Are Root Canals Necessary?

Root canals are a dental procedure that is often feared and misunderstood. Many people associate the term with pain and discomfort, but root canals can be essential in saving your natural teeth. This article will explore why root canals are necessary and how they benefit your overall well-being.

Why are root canals necessary?

Root canals are necessary for several reasons. First, they can help alleviate pain and discomfort from an infected or fractured tooth. Second, they can help to prevent further damage to a tooth and its surrounding tissues. If left untreated, an infected tooth can lead to an abscess, which can cause serious health problems outside the dental scope.

Root canals are also necessary for decreasing the chances of tooth loss and gum disease. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is the build-up of bacteria and plaque on the teeth and gums, leading to inflammation, infection, receding gum lines, and tooth loss. Gum disease in its early stages can be reversible, but if left untreated, it can progress, affecting the entire mouth, and only become manageable.

What is a root canal?

A root canal, sometimes called root canal therapy, is a procedure dental professionals use to treat a damaged or infected tooth. The procedure involves removing the damaged or infected pulp inside the tooth and replacing it with a medicated filling called gutta-percha. The pulp is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels.

What to expect after a root canal

In the few hours following the root canal procedure, it is normal for patients to experience discomfort and sensitivity once the local anesthetic wears off. This is because the tooth and surrounding tissues may be inflamed or irritated due to steps performed during the procedure. However, the symptoms should subside within a few days.

Your dentist may also prescribe patients with pain medication in the event of an emergency, but over-the-counter pain medications may help as well. In addition to pain medication, patients may be prescribed an antibiotic to clear any lingering infection.

Restoration options after a root canal

After a root canal, the tooth will be fragile and will need to be restored and protected. We will discuss several restoration options with the patient, depending on their new oral state and personal preferences. The most common restoration options include dental crowns and fillings.

Dental crowns are caps placed over the treated tooth to protect it and restore its function and shape. Crowns typically consist of porcelain, metal, or composite materials. Any material your dentist deems appropriate will be color-matched to the patient’s teeth, providing a natural finish.

Dental fillings can consist of composite or porcelain material used to fill the space left behind, shape the tooth and restore its function. Fillings have come a long way since their amalgam days. For example, we can now color-match the fillings to the patient’s teeth, giving them a natural and symmetrical smile.