Three Reasons You Might Need a Root Canal

Do you shiver when hear the word “root canal”? If so, you shouldn’t! Root canal technology has evolved dramatically over the years. Today’s process actually causes little to no pain at all! If your tooth is at risk of dying, a root canal is a safe procedure that might literally be a lifesaver. Do any of the problems below sound familiar to you? If so, you may need a root canal.

How Does a Root Canal Work?

During a root canal, your endodontist removes all infected pulp from the center of your tooth, then cleans and shapes the inside of the root canal area itself. The hollow root canal is filled with a sterilizing material to protect against future infection, then it is sealed closed to make your tooth functional again. This simple process maintains the natural appearance and function of your tooth while eliminating your cause of pain and discomfort!

Decay

The number one cause of root canals is uncontrolled decay in the tooth. Decay usually begins on the surface of the tooth in the form of a cavity, but left untreated or faced with negligent oral hygiene, the decay will spread down into the lower layers of the teeth like the dentin. Eventually, the tooth becomes so infected that it faces certain extraction unless the decay can be removed.

Tooth Fractures

It also happens that by grinding your teeth or chewing on hard foods you can develop fractures in your teeth that expose the pulp chamber to bacteria. This pain becomes impossible to ignore, and some people require a root canal to alleviate the constant discomfort.

Traumatic Accidents

Sports collisions, work-related accidents, and other unexpected traumas can all lead to tooth damage that results in a root canal in order to save a tooth that has severely inflamed nerves.

The best way to prevent the need for a root canal in the future is to brush and floss twice a day, avoid hard, sticky, and sugary food, and visit the dentist every six months. If you do find yourself needing a root canal, call (813) 570-6887 to make an appointment at Citrus Endodontics in Tampa, Florida. The team at Citrus Endodontics is committed to saving your teeth.