Can a Root Canal Procedure Save My Tooth?

A root canal procedure can indeed save your tooth and alleviate the pain caused by infected or damaged pulp. This treatment is performed by removing the infected tissue from the root canals of your tooth, cleaning and disinfecting them, and then filling and sealing them to prevent further infection.

What Is a Root Canal Procedure?

A root canal procedure, also known as endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure performed to save a tooth that is severely infected or damaged. It involves removing the infected pulp inside the tooth and cleaning out the root canals before sealing them. 

Pulp is the soft tissue located in the center of your tooth. When bacteria enter through deep cavities or cracks in your teeth, they can reach this pulp and cause an infection. This infection can lead to severe pain, swelling, and even abscesses if left untreated.

How Is a Root Canal Procedure Performed?

First, your dentist will assess the condition of your tooth and determine if a root canal is necessary. This may involve taking X-rays to get a better view of the affected area. Once it's confirmed that a root canal is needed, the procedure can begin. Next, your dentist will administer local anesthesia to ensure you're comfortable throughout the procedure. This numbs the area around the tooth and prevents any pain or discomfort during treatment.

Once you're numb, your dentist will create an access point in your tooth by drilling into it. This allows them to reach and remove any infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth. After removing the pulp, your dentist will clean and shape the inside of the tooth using specialized tools. They'll then fill in this space with a rubbery material called gutta-percha to seal off any potential reinfection. In some cases, additional support may be needed for weakened teeth. Your dentist might place a dental crown over the treated tooth to protect it from further damage and restore its strength and functionality.

Undergoing a root canal procedure involves several precise steps that are essential for saving an infected or damaged tooth. It's important to consult with your dentist if you suspect you may need this treatment, as early intervention can prevent more serious complications down the line.

Benefits of a Root Canal Procedure

When it comes to dental procedures, the words "root canal" often evoke fear and anxiety. However, undergoing a root canal procedure can actually have several benefits that outweigh any initial discomfort.

• First and foremost, a root canal can save your tooth from extraction. When the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay or trauma, it is necessary to remove the damaged tissue in order to prevent further complications. By removing the infected pulp and cleaning out the root canals, a dentist can effectively salvage your natural tooth.
• Another benefit of a root canal is pain relief. If you're experiencing severe toothache or sensitivity, these symptoms are likely caused by an infection within the tooth's nerve chamber. The removal of this infected tissue during a root canal procedure alleviates pain and promotes healing.
• In addition to saving your natural tooth and providing pain relief, another advantage of a root canal is improved oral health. By eliminating infection inside the affected tooth, you eliminate bacteria that could potentially spread throughout your mouth and beyond. This helps prevent further damage to surrounding teeth and gums.
• Restoring function is yet another benefit of undergoing a root canal procedure. After treatment, you will be able to chew comfortably again without any limitations or discomfort caused by an infected tooth.
• One significant advantage of opting for a root canal over-extraction is cost-effectiveness in the long run. While extractions may seem like an easier option initially, they often require additional dental work such as bridges or implants down the line - which can be more expensive than saving your natural tooth through a root canal procedure.

Find out more about oral health by scheduling an appointment at the Rio Rancho Family Dental Care clinic. Call us at (505) 891-4510 or drop in at our dental office, located at 4041 Ridge Rock Rd SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124.