The words “root canal” can bring up images of surprise, drills, and pain–at least that’s what the movies show. However, a root canal is a standard procedure that eliminates infected or decayed material from the pulp of your tooth. The goal of a root canal is to save as much of your natural tooth as possible, but the infection must be removed. The bacteria that grow due to infection can have significant consequences if not handled promptly.
An infected tooth can cause you a great deal of pain, so the root canal relieves the pain and inflammation. While a root canal is a complex procedure, dentists perform it routinely and generally without complications. After removing the infected pulp, your dentist will fill and seal your tooth so you don’t experience any further issues.
Root canals aren’t as painful as what television and movies will have you believe. They are no more painful than other dental procedures, so if your dentist recommends a root canal, you shouldn’t worry. Generally, it won’t be a shock if you need a root canal because the symptoms can cause you significant discomfort.
Trauma to a Tooth
A chipped or cracked tooth can be a reason for needing a root canal. A fractured tooth will need special attention, whether it is due to an accident, an injury playing a sport, or chewing something hard. When a cavity, a chip, or a fracture creates an opening in the enamel, it leaves room for bacteria to grow and develop an infection.
Furthermore, you may need a root canal after an injury, even if your tooth didn’t chip or break. Damage to the nerves in your teeth can be severe enough to need a root canal.
Serious Infection
Infections can be caused by many things, including gum disease, impacted teeth, or an advanced cavity. If you need a root canal due to an infected tooth, you should move forward with your procedure as soon as possible. Infections can cause a lot of symptoms that are cause for concern. Not only can you experience severe pain from infections, but you can also feel effects throughout your body.
In addition, an infection won’t stay in one spot; without treatment, it will spread. Infections can move through your bloodstream and begin to affect your organs.
Since your mouth is so close to your brain, you have to worry about the infection spreading to your brain. If left untreated, infections can cause death. However, with a root canal, the dentist removes the tooth’s infected portion so it won’t spread.
Pain and Sensitivity
If you are experiencing significant pain or heightened sensitivity to temperatures, you may need a root canal. Infection and trauma to the teeth can impact the nerves and ligaments in your teeth and mouth. When the pain and sensitivity don’t go away, it is time to contact your dentist because it may be a sign that the blood vessels or nerves have been affected by an infection.