An Emotional Phrase
The very mention of the phrase “root canal” makes some people shudder. But there is a new era upon us that involves less discomfort with this procedure.
It’s an important form of dental therapy. A damaged or wounded nerve used to mean tooth loss and extensive pain. This is no longer, thanks to root canal therapy.
The process requires three dental visits but generates little or no pain. The main benefit is that you can keep your teeth and keep your grin.
Keep reading to learn more!
What is a Root Canal?
Each tooth has a pulp that contains nerves. The pulp joins the root. If the pulp is infected or wounded, the pulp tissue dies. If you don’t act quickly, your tooth may become infected, and you may lose it. Root canal therapy helps save the injured pulp. To strengthen your tooth, your dentist will remove the unhealthy pulp and remodel the canal.
Why Do I Need a Root Canal?
The infection will spread if you do not treat a diseased or wounded nerve. Untreated pus creates an abscess near the root tip of the jawbone. An abscess can harm the jawbone.
The bone around your tooth will deteriorate, and your tooth may fall out. If left untreated the pain usually worsens and so does the damage to surrounding areas.
There is an alternative to root canal therapy. The tooth can be removed. This is inexpensive but leaves you with a gap. The need for a bridge or implant may necessitate expensive additional procedures. Choosing root canal therapy will let you keep your natural teeth.
More About the Tooth Pulp
The pulp contains the tooth’s veins, arteries, nerves, and lymph vessels. The pulp is found within the dentin and beneath the enamel. Root canals are short, thin divisions that branch from the pulp chamber to the root.
What Harms the Pulp Nerve?
Pulp nerve injury is caused by trauma and physical stimulation. This might happen when a tooth is hit hard, or when an infected tooth is left untreated for some time. Tooth decay migrating to the nerve causes physical distress. As harmful germs reach the nerve, degradation and infection occur.
Symptoms of Pulp Nerve Injury
Pulp nerve injury has numerous symptoms, and other conditions may be comparable. It’s vital to see a dentist to pinpoint the issue. Pain in your tooth caused by chewing and biting are some of the symptoms. Notably, these symptoms differ from person to person.
Endodontists
Endodontists are dentists who specialize in tooth pulp disorders. They deal with endodontic operations that typical dentists don’t handle. This may include re-treating unhealed root canals and similar procedures.
Expectations
Your restored tooth may survive a lifetime, but it depends on various factors. The surrounding tissue must continue to nourish the treated roots. It is also worth highlighting the importance of proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits. It is best to work with your endodontists before and after your root canal treatment to ensure you are caring for your teeth properly.
Risks
Untreated root canals can lead to tooth loss. Abscesses near the base of the tooth can cause bone tissue deterioration if left untreated. At this stage, saving the tooth is unlikely, and it may fall out. The infection may spread to neighboring teeth, causing facial swelling, blood poisoning, and fever.
We Can Help
Long Island Endodontics is dedicated to your comfort and oral health.
You will be in good hands with the compassionate experience and skill of Dr. Craig Berry. Call him today at 516-667-1471 or get in touch with our staff here.
