Root Canal Treatment in Spring, Tx
Root Canal Treatment Is Your Friend
We’ve all heard the gag: “I’d rather have a root canal.” This comedy line, comparing the procedure to something truly undesirable, may be funny — but putting off needed endodontic treatment is no joke. The idea that a root canal procedure invariably comes with complications and pain is a shopworn myth. It’s certainly true that infection or inflammation in the tooth’s pulp can be excruciatingly painful. But you should remember that having a root canal results in eliminating this acute pain and is not the cause of the pain.
Need another reason not to delay root canal treatment? How about this: A natural tooth that’s saved via root canal treatment and restoration helps you avoid the problems that commonly occur when teeth must be removed. These include unwanted tooth migration or shifting, which can lead to difficulties in chewing; the need for bridgework or dental implants, which may be costly and complicated; and even the eventual loss of bone structure from the area of the missing tooth.
Causes of Root Canal Problems
Root canal problems stem from infection and inflammation of the tooth’s pulp tissue. One potential cause of infection is deep tooth decay. Untreated dental cavities eventually allow bacteria to work their way down to the center of the tooth, where they may infect the pulp tissue. Another path by which bacteria may come into contact with pulp is via chipped or cracked teeth. Any opening in the protective enamel coating has the potential to allow bacteria access to the tooth’s pulp.
Trauma to the tooth — the kind that might result from a sports injury or automobile accident, for example — is also a major cause of pulp tissue damage. In this case, it’s essential to seek treatment immediately, both to try and save the tooth, and to prevent future problems.
In some cases, extensive dental work itself may cause damage to the pulp tissue that will need to be treated via a root canal. Having multiple fillings or restorations on the same tooth increases the chances of this type of injury. Occasionally, common procedures like crown preparation or orthodontics may eventually lead to root canal problems.
What to Expect During Root Canal Therapy
If an examination shows that you do need root canal therapy, don’t worry — it’s one of the most routine and effective procedures in the arsenal of dental treatments and can often be accomplished in just one visit.
The root canal process generally begins the same way as a filling does, and with no greater discomfort: an anesthetic is administered to numb the tooth and the surrounding area. For many patients, the worst is already over.
Next, a small opening is made in the surface of the affected tooth to give access to the pulp chamber and root canals. Tiny instruments are used, sometimes with the aid of a microscope, to remove the dead and dying pulp tissue from inside these narrow passageways. The chamber and empty canals are then cleaned, disinfected, and prepared to receive a filling of inert, biocompatible material. Finally, adhesive cement is used to seal the opening in the tooth, preventing future infection.
Following root canal treatment, your tooth may feel some sensitivity or tenderness for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen are generally effective in relieving discomfort, but prescription medications may also be given if needed. During this period, it may help to avoid biting hard on the affected tooth. All of these symptoms, however, should be temporary.
To further protect the tooth and restore it to full function, it’s usually necessary to have a crown or other restoration placed on it. Restorations can take many forms, from traditional gold crowns to tooth replicas made of high-tech tooth-colored material. In any case, you will have made an investment in preserving your dental health for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a root canal really as painful as everyone says?
Not usually. The procedure itself feels similar to getting a filling, and it actually relieves the pain caused by the infection rather than creating it.
My tooth has been hurting for days. How do I know if I need a root canal?
Watch for constant pain, swelling, sensitivity to hot or cold, or sharp pain when you bite down. Any of these means it’s time for an evaluation.
Can a cracked tooth turn into a root canal problem?
Yes. Once the enamel is broken, bacteria can reach the pulp tissue inside and cause an infection that needs treatment.
I hurt my tooth playing sports. Should I worry about needing a root canal?
Trauma like this can damage the pulp tissue right away. Get it checked quickly; the longer you wait, the harder the tooth is to save.
Will I need more than one visit to get my root canal done?
Usually not. Most root canals at Royalty Dental Associates are completed in a single appointment.
Why do I need a crown after my root canal?
A crown protects the treated tooth and restores it to full function, keeping it strong for everyday use.
What happens if I just have the tooth pulled instead of getting a root canal?
Nearby teeth tend to drift into the empty space over time. Saving your natural tooth with a root canal avoids that problem altogether.