What Is a Root Canal Treatment?

The tooth pulp is the tissue inside a tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. A root canal, also known as endodontic therapy, is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected, which usually results from deep decay, cracks or chips in a tooth, or repeated dental procedures.

Root canal therapy involves removing the tooth pulp and filling the space with a material designed to maintain the structural integrity of the tooth’s root. A dental crown placed on the affected tooth will protect and strengthen it and will restore its form and function. Leaving a tooth with damaged pulp untreated can result in pain and swelling, and may potentially require extraction.

Can a Tooth in Need of a Root Canal Heal Itself?

A tooth with infected pulp cannot heal on its own and will require a root canal to preserve it. If left untreated, the infection can cause a host of oral problems and can spread to your jaw, brain, blood, and body. Aside from tooth extraction, there are no viable options to treat diseased pulp than a root canal. A dental filling will not resolve the infection, nor will antibiotics. A root canal treatment will help maintain your oral and overall health.

Why Save a Damaged Tooth?

It is always better to keep your natural teeth as long as possible, and root canal therapy allows for that. You’ll be able to smile with confidence and will enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions. Missing a tooth can lead to many complications, including bone deterioration, and neighboring teeth may shift and drift out of alignment, potentially affecting your bite.

Preserving a tooth will save you time and money down the road by preventing the need for restorations such as bridges or implants. The success rate for root canals is higher than 95 percent, and with proper care, your treated tooth can last a lifetime.

Signs You Need a Root Canal

The most common symptoms of damaged tooth pulp are pain or discomfort. Other warning signs include lingering sensitivity to heat or cold, tooth discoloration, swelling and tenderness in the gums, or tenderness in the lymph nodes under the jaw. In some cases, pulp infection may not show any symptoms. X-rays taken during your routine dental exams will uncover any underlying tooth damage, allowing for prompt treatment.

Maintaining a Healthy Smile

You can reduce your risk of needing future root canals by improving your oral hygiene practices. Brush and floss regularly and limit your sugar intake. Make sure to visit Floss City Dental for your routine dental exams and cleanings to allow for the early detection and treatment of cavities before they progress and require root canal therapy.

Root Canal Treatment in Plano, TX

Contact Floss City Dental in Plano, TX, to learn more about root canals and how they can preserve your natural teeth. We look forward to helping you enjoy a healthy smile for many years to come. Call us and schedule your appointment today.

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