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When Is A Root Canal Necessary?

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If you are like many people, the mere thought of a root canal makes you cringe. Although this procedure is feared by many dental patients, root canal therapy has come a long way and normally does not cause any discomfort at all. After the treatment, most patients feel a lot better. Here are some instances where a root canal is necessary.

Deep Cavity

While most cavities can be taken care of with a simple filling, some require a more extensive treatment. If a cavity has been untreated for a while, it can reach the pulp of the tooth, causing inflammation and severe pain. If you have a deep cavity, the only way an endodontist can get rid of the decay is by removing the nerve of the tooth.

Abscess

Whether it is due to trauma or gum disease, a tooth abscess can open up the enamel, letting bacteria infect the pulp, according to WebMD. In addition to throbbing pain, an abscess can cause swollen neck glands, a fever, inflamed gums and foul smelling breath. A root canal may be required to drain the infection out of the tooth.

Trauma

When there is trauma to a tooth, whether it is from a car accident or sports injury, the nerve can get damaged and eventually die. A root canal can repair the nerve damage and eliminate the pain you feel.

Repeated Cavity Fillings

When the a tooth has to get more than one filling, it can endure a lot of stress. In some cases, the pulp may even become inflamed. Your dentist can examine the tooth and determine whether the inflammation can be fixed or not. If the inflammation is reversible, a root canal can treat the tooth.

Cracked Tooth

The majority of cracked teeth can be fixed by reattaching the broken piece of tooth or through dental bonding. However, if the crack has reached the pulp, a root canal may be necessary to save the tooth. Root canal therapy can help you avoid tooth extraction.

If you think you may need a root canal, you should make an appointment to see an endodontist as soon as possible. He or she can examine the tooth and determine if a root canal is necessary or not. Root canal therapy normally requires just one appointment, but additional appointments may be needed if the pulp is deeply infected. Once the tooth is treated, you shouldn't feel any pain.

Contact a professional specializing in endodontics to learn more.


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