Learning about the need to get a root canal treatment can be terrifying. This treatment has been seen negatively by many people. But the truth is that root canal therapy can restore your oral health. A Wichita Falls dentist can walk you through the details of this procedure and how it can help you avoid losing a tooth.
How Root Canal Therapy Can Save Your Tooth
Your dentist will get rid of the infected or inflamed pulp material inside your tooth. They will then clean the pulp chamber and root canal. Before they fill the pulp chamber with gutta-percha, the dentist will disinfect and clean the area. Gutta-percha will seal your tooth as well as keep food particles and bacteria away. Putting a crown over the tooth will protect it from damage or infection.
If you do not undergo a root canal procedure, the infection in the pulp will spread to your other teeth and can end up in your bloodstream. This can threaten your general health and life. If the infection gets worse, tooth extraction may be necessary. However, a root canal treatment allows your dentist to restore the infected tooth and reduce your risk of infection. As a result, the tooth can last for several years when properly maintained.
How to Know You Need a Root Canal Treatment
A tooth infection may develop without being noticed for years. A dental examination can determine the tooth that can develop a severe infection. Also, here are symptoms you can watch out for:
- Tooth loosening. The infected pulp can produce pus that can soften the bone that supports the affected tooth. Jawbone deterioration weakens the foundation of the tooth, causing it to loosen.
- Lingering tooth pain. This pain can spread to your face, jaw, or other teeth. This happens when there’s a tooth infection.
- Gum swelling and tenderness. A tooth infection can also affect your gums by causing them to swell and become tender.
- Discoloration. The infected tooth will become darker than before.
- A swollen jaw. this can happen due to the pus in the infected tooth that can’t drain out.
Tooth damage can reach the pulp, which can be quite painful. This makes it important to see a dentist as soon as possible. The dentist will evaluate the affected tooth and recommend a root canal treatment. Root canal therapy can restore, strengthen, and protect your tooth. Maintaining good oral health hygiene and seeing your dentist regularly can help you avoid root canal therapy. But if this procedure is necessary, it may be your only option to save a tooth.
