Root canal treatment has received a bad rap, but it’s not as scary as the movies and rumors may have you think. However, it could be what keeps you from moving forward with the procedure you need to preserve your smile. If your dentist in Dallas recommends root canal treatment, consider the facts and be sure you don’t only react based on your fears! Read on to learn whether you have to get root canal treatment if your dentist recommends one and what it could mean for your smile if you don’t.
What is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment has two steps: the treatment of the tooth itself and its restoration. First, your dentist will create a small window in the top surface of your tooth to access the interior of it. This will allow them to remove the infected soft tissue and nerves located in the inner chamber and sanitize it to make sure bacteria aren’t left to linger. Your dentist will fill the chamber with an antibacterial material called gutta percha to restore the tooth’s structure and seal off the tooth. Then, a temporary crown will be placed over the tooth. Once your permanent crown arrives, your dentist will replace the temporary, and your treatment will be complete!
What are Signs You Need a Root Canal?
Even if you think your dentist will recommend root canal treatment and you’re scared about the outcome of your examination, it’s important to address dental pain and out-of-the-ordinary symptoms as soon as possible. Here are a few common signs root canal treatment is needed:
- A persistent toothache
- A visibly discolored tooth
- A visibly damaged tooth
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
- Dental decay that you can see
- A pimple-like bump on the gumline
- Swelling and inflammation around a tooth
The best thing to do in this situation is to call your nearest emergency dentist and schedule an exam so they can diagnose the problem at-hand and treat it to prevent further damage.
Why Should You Consider Your Dentist’s Treatment Recommendation?
Even though the last bit of news that you wanted to hear was that you needed a root canal, it’s still important to consider the consequences of avoiding receiving treatment. When an infection located within a tooth is left to advance, it can spread to the jawbone and even lead to bacteria entering the bloodstream. In the most severe instances, this can lead to sepsis, heart attack, or even a stroke. When you put off root canal treatment for too long, it can also lead to you needing a tooth extraction and replacement instead. This could be more costly for not just your smile, but also your wallet.
Your dentist is here to help you look at all of your options, so never hesitate to ask questions about their treatment recommendations. If you’re concerned or fearful, it could also help to ask them about what you can expect. You may be surprised to find out that the procedure itself isn’t as major as you may have originally thought!
About the Author
Dr. Arrechea has over 20 years of experience practicing dentistry and is excellent at providing quick and accurate diagnoses, as well as pain-relieving emergency dentistry. For patients in pain, she offers same-day examinations as well as dental sedation to ensure a more comfortable visit. For questions or to schedule an appointment, visit Daily Smiles Dental Dallas’ website or call 214-624-6221.