Do You Need a Root Canal?

Your dentist finally said those two dreaded words: root canal. However, there’s no reason to worry. Today’s root canals are surprisingly simple procedures that save your damaged tooth without needing further, more costly intervention. Root canals are common procedures, and your dentist in Deerwood, MN, is an expert at making you feel comfortable and relaxed. Learn more by scheduling a consultation.

Why Do You Need a Root Canal?

Usually, your dentist will recommend a root canal if you have a tooth that has infected pulp but is still in good enough condition to save the tooth. You’ll usually know something is wrong because this type of infection may cause a terrific toothache. Fortunately, by drilling into the pulp chamber of your tooth, removing the infected material, and disinfecting the root canals, your dentist can ease your pain and save your natural tooth, which is always preferable to extracting it.

Symptoms of Tooth Infection

Pain is a big indicator that it’s time to see your dentist. However, you may notice other symptoms that your tooth has become infected, including:

• Gums that are swollen, tender, or discolored
• Difficulty putting pressure on your tooth
• Sudden sensitivity to hot or cold foods
• Formation of a blister on the gum

At this point, it’s time to drain the infection, deep clean the tooth, and fill the root canals and pulp chamber with gutta-percha to prevent reinfection. Lastly, your dental professional will place a crown for added stability.

Why Not Just Pull the Tooth?

Missing teeth affect the appearance of your smile. But even if the tooth is a back molar that can’t be seen when you smile, saving it is still the best option. Once your dentist extracts a permanent tooth, they must put something else in its place to keep your jawbone healthy. This could lead to more costly dental work, including dental implants or partial dentures. For these reasons, your dentist will always try their best to save a tooth before they consider extracting it. A root canal is the perfect procedure.

For more information on root canals in Deerwood, MN, and to find out whether this is the right treatment for you, call River Oaks Dental today.