Understanding Root Canals: Why You Need One

It may come as a surprise to hear your dentist say you need to have a root canal done. While you knew you had a problem due to the pain in a tooth, you probably thought a simple cleaning and filing would take care of it. However, a root canal is not done for a simple cavity. Of course, the procedure is more involved than a filling, but it's one of the best ways to save your tooth and stop the problem from spreading to other teeth. Here is some information about root canals.

What is a Root Canal?

Inside the tooth is a hollow spot that is filled with pulp. Within the pulp are blood vessels and nerves. The whole pulp area can become inflamed with bacteria that cause inflammation and pain. A root canal is done to remove the inflamed pulp and nerves, stopping any disease and keeping it from affecting the outer portion of the tooth and spreading elsewhere.

What Happens During a Root Canal?

During a root canal, the dentist will make a small hole or slice in the tooth. They will then carefully scrape out the pulp and nerves. Once the area is clear, they will flush it with a sterilizing solution. Finally, they will fill the area and opening with a special rubber-like material to keep the tooth stable and prevent reinfection.

How Can I Tell I Need a Root Canal?

While only a dentist can be sure of the need for a root canal, here are a few signs you may notice before going to see them:

• Constant pain
• Swollen gums
• Sensitivity to hot and cold
• Dark gums
• An abscess

If you notice any of these, do not try to treat it as merely a cavity and put off going to the dentist. The sooner you have it taken care of the sooner you will feel better.

While the idea of root canals may be scary, it is not as bad as you think. The dentist will make sure the area is completely numb so you cannot feel anything. Once the procedure is done you will not feel any pain as the nerves are gone. If you need further encouragement, remember that an infection in any of your teeth can travel through the bloodstream and cause infection in other areas of the body, including causing heart disease. Don't put your health at risk, see a dentist and have the root canal done.

To learn more, contact a dentist in your area—such as John B Webster DDS.