With good care at home and regular dental visits, you will hopefully avoid entering a situation where you need a root canal. However, if you have a problem with the interior of your tooth, this procedure can be crucial to saving it from being lost. A root canal is a procedure where your dentist will access a tooth’s pulp, to address any issues with the nerves and blood vessels within. This living tissue is what sustains your tooth; if a problem arises in this area, it can become painful, and it can potentially kill the tooth.
What Kind Of Problems Require A Root Canal?
Root canals are commonly performed on teeth with advanced cavities. Not all cavities require root canals, however. If your dentist treats a cavity before it has become severe, it can be restored with a filling. A cavity that goes untreated will cause more significant decay, and bacteria can enter your pulp. Once this occurs, your dentist will have to remove the infection in this region. You can also require a root canal after a tooth injury. If your tooth is cracked, or if it shows signs of interior trauma, your dentist can perform a root canal. Because the amount of tooth removed for a root canal can be significant, you will typically need to have a dental crown placed on the tooth after the procedure.
Reduce Your Risk For Advanced Tooth Problems With Routine Checkups
Early cavities may be asymptomatic – this means that while the cavity is present, it may not cause you pain. Your dentist will examine your mouth during a routine checkup, and can spot a cavity you may be unaware of. This protects you from leaving a cavity unaddressed until a root canal is needed.
