“I’d rather have a root canal.”
Yes, we are familiar with the phrase, which is usually uttered on TV whenever someone has to do something terrible. The truth is root canal therapy is not a procedure that should strike fear into your heart. Modern dentistry has improved the technology and techniques used, making it simpler and reducing the pain you might experience. The resulting benefits of a root canal far outweighs the anxiety you might feel beforehand. Dr. Matthew Bridges at the Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK offers comprehensive preventive and restorative dental care, including root canal therapy to relieve your pain so you can get back to your life.
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is performed to eliminate bacteria in a severely damaged or decayed tooth. The procedure involves removing the diseased pulp inside the tooth, cleaning out the infection, and then sealing the tooth again.
There is a natural cavity in the center of each tooth called the “root canal”. Inside that cavity is a soft area filled with pulp, as well as nerves that let you know if foods are too hot or cold. If the nerve or soft tissue becomes damaged, bacteria can start to form, leading to an infection or abscess, which means the infection has gone all the way past the root canal.
You may need root canal therapy if you have:
- A persistent, severe toothache
- Severe toothache when you chew or apply pressure
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures (after heat or cold have been removed)
- Discoloration (darkening) of the tooth
- Swelling and tenderness in the gums
- A persistent pimple on the gums
5 Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
1. A root canal can save your natural teeth.
While there have been tremendous improvements in how we replace lost teeth, including dental implantsand implanted-supported dentures, there is still nothing better than the function of your natural teeth. This means equalized bite forces, more efficient chewing, optimal aesthetics, and a reduced need for future dental work.
2. A root canal can relieve that nagging toothache.
The pain from a toothache is a major distraction that can inhibit concentration at work and keep you from enjoying your favorite activities. You might not be able to eat or chew without pain, and you could also have sensitivity to cold and hot foods. A root canal will rid you of tooth pain so you can eat ice cream without fear or enjoy that big football game coming up in a few weeks.
3. A root canal can save you from a tooth extraction.
Infection of the pulp inside the tooth can cause it to become loose, to the point where it needs to be extracted. Tooth loss can lead to deterioration of the jawbone itself, and the only solution after that is usually dentures or dental implants. A root canal can save your diseased tooth so it does not have to be extracted.
4. A root canal can give you an improved smile.
Decay, fractures and infection can cause your tooth to become discolored and cracked. Pretty soon you are reluctant to smile. During a root canal, any holes or cracks can be covered with tooth-colored material. You can also choose to get a dental crown, which looks like your natural tooth. This will give you back a pleasing smile you can be proud to show off.
5. A root canal can keep you healthier overall.
The state of your teeth can also affect your health overall. Left untreated, the infection in your tooth can spread to your gums, where it is then free to travel throughout your body.
Contact Us Today
If you are suffering from a toothache that might require a root canal or you have other dental issues, turn to Chisholm Trail Smile Center and Dr. Bridges. We are dedicated to providing excellent dental care, as well as great service, to our patients. Schedule your visit today by calling our Duncan, OK dental office at (580) 255-4880.
