Most dentists would agree that it’s almost always preferable to save a patient’s natural teeth whenever possible. If a tooth is badly decayed or infected, one of the best ways to save the tooth is often with a root canal procedure. In most cases, the tooth can return to being fully functional afterwards, which is why root canals are an effective means of saving teeth that might otherwise be lost. Root canals may be recommended for patients of all ages, although they are typically done only on adult, permanent teeth.
How to Know if You Need a Root Canal
Root canals are typically recommended when a tooth is badly decayed and the pulp of the tooth has become infected. Your dentist is the only one who can truly determine whether or not a root canal is called for, but there are some symptoms that might indicate this procedure is needed:
- A severe toothache that gets worse when you apply pressure or bite down on it
- A discolored tooth
- A tooth that is sensitive to hot and cold foods and drinks
- Sensitive and/or swollen gums around a certain tooth
What You Need to Know about Root Canals
A root canal procedure begins with your dentist removing the pulp and nerve of the tooth, then sealing it off. Although the procedure may sound painful, modern dentistry has provided us with several different alternatives with regard to conscious sedation and numbing the affected area. Thanks to present-day dental technology, root canals are no more uncomfortable for the patient than any other dental procedure.
Root canals usually require two trips to our office. In certain situations, your dentist may recommend that a crown be applied over the tooth that has undergone a root canal. Sometimes, the tooth will be strong enough to be fully functional on its own after the procedure.
Contact Us Today
If you believe that someone in your family may be in need of a root canal, contact our Mansfield, TX, office today to schedule an appointment.
