When it comes to dental treatments, root canal therapy is known to be intimidating and painful. However, this procedure is an essential dental treatment that can save your natural teeth from extraction and alleviate extreme pain caused by infected or damaged tooth pulp. The following blog will explore the benefits of root canal therapy and why it is a valuable procedure for your oral health.
A primary advantage of root canals is saving a patient's natural teeth. Instead of a dentist resorting to extracting an infected tooth, root canal therapy enables the retention of the original tooth structure. Extraction can lead to tooth loss and subsequent challenges, such as difficulty chewing, shifting teeth, and bone loss. By removing the infected pulp and thoroughly cleaning the canals, the dentist can seal and restore the tooth, allowing the patient to maintain a natural-looking smile and prevent future dental issues.
Dentists often perform root canal therapy to alleviate one's severe toothache caused by an infected or abscessed pulp. Tooth pulp, a collection of nerves and blood vessels, can become infected due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma to the tooth. This infection can cause excruciating pain, temperature sensitivity, and swelling. Root canal therapy eliminates the source of the pain by removing the infected pulp, providing immediate relief and restoring oral comfort.
Untreated oral infections can have serious consequences beyond oral health. When bacteria from an infected tooth spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream, they can potentially contribute to systemic health issues such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and respiratory infections. By undergoing root canal therapy, the patient addresses the immediate oral health concern and reduces the risk of complications that may affect their overall health and well-being.
Root canal therapy involves restoring the tooth after removing the infected pulp. The dentist typically reinforces the treated tooth with a crown or filling. This restoration not only provides strength and protection but also restores the tooth's natural appearance. With advancements in dental materials and techniques, dentists can match the restored tooth's color, shape, and contour to the surrounding teeth, resulting in a seamless and aesthetically pleasing smile.
While some individuals may consider extraction a cheaper alternative to root canal therapy, it is essential to evaluate the long-term costs. While extracting a tooth may seem cost-effective initially, it often requires additional procedures such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures to replace the missing tooth. In addition, these restoration options involve additional expenses, maintenance, and potential future complications. In contrast, root canal therapy preserves the natural tooth and eliminates the need for further extensive dental work.
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While root canals have a negative reputation, it is a highly beneficial dental treatment that saves your natural while reducing pain and improving your overall health. If you are experiencing a severe toothache or suspect you have an oral infection, call our office immediately to schedule an appointment. We will use this time to determine if root canal therapy is effective for your situation. Taking immediate action can save your tooth and protect your health.
Request an appointment or call River Falls Family Dental at 812-962-7342 for an appointment in our New Albany office.
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