Root canal therapy is a procedure that removes dead and infected pulp or dentin from within the tooth. It is recommended for patients with acute or chronic pain, persistent infection from an untreated wisdom tooth, and when there are exposed nerves. Root canal therapy has become a common dental practice in Powell, TN.
To perform a root canal, the dentist must first numb the tooth to eliminate sensitivity. The dentist will then make a small opening on the top of the tooth to get access to the pulp chamber. An incision is done in the gum tissue and space is then made between the tooth and gum. Next, all infected material is removed from inside and around each canal. After this is done, an opening must be made from the top of each canal into the bone of the tooth, where dentin will be placed over it to seal out bacteria. Lastly, the tooth will be filled and crowned with a filling to protect the tooth from further damage.
Here are the main reasons for which you should consider root canal therapy.
- Decay has reached the tooth pulp
If you notice a visible gap between your tooth and gums, there is a good chance that decay has reached the pulp tissue. Once this happens, an infection can cause significant damage to the inner tissues in your mouth. If you notice sensitivity in your teeth, then don’t wait to consult your dentist right away. It might be an early sign of needing root canal therapy before it becomes worse.
- You have pain while chewing or biting down
If you have pain while biting down or chewing, then chances are that you may need root canal therapy. Root canal therapy cures infected tissue from inside the tooth and relieves inflammation and pain caused by it.
- Development of abscess or infection at the root tip or inside the tooth
If there is an infection or abscess at the root tip, it’s highly likely that you may need root canal therapy as this can cause pain and discomfort. Once there is an infection in your tooth pulp, it can be difficult to ensure that everything is removed from the tooth in one single procedure, so chances of developing an abscess are more likely.
- Trauma or injury to the tooth
If there is any kind of trauma or injury to the tooth, chances are you might need root canal therapy. In some instances, this damage can occur as a result of a fracture, fracture repair, or during extraction. If you have any kind of healing on the tooth surface with bone fragments above it, then it is highly likely that you might need root canal therapy.
