When Do You Need Root Canal Therapy?

It can be difficult to know the severity of your dental condition based off of the symptoms or pain that you’re experiencing. If you have a toothache or sensitivity, it could be a sign of a cavity or tooth decay. However, a cavity can usually be treated with a dental filling – so when do you need root canal therapy? Also referred to as endodontic treatment, it becomes necessary when the pulp (or nerve) of your tooth is inflamed or infected. Ultimately, your dentist will be able to decide whether it is able to save your tooth.

Reasons You May Need Endodontic Treatment

Deep tooth decay

Trauma

Cracked or chipped tooth

Faulty dental crowns

How Will Root Canal Therapy Save Your Tooth?

If left untreated, an infection in the pulp of your tooth could spread to the surrounding gum tissue and bone, eventually causing an abscessed tooth or even loss. Many patients worry that without the nerve of their tooth, it won’t survive. Actually, with a fully developed tooth, it can still thrive on nutrients from surrounding tissues without decreasing its functionality. During a root canal, your dentist will remove the infected portion of your tooth, including the nerve, fill the area, and seal your tooth to protect it from future damage. Once this is completed, your tooth will be able to function normally again.

Tooth pain shouldn’t be taken lightly as it can be the sign of a much more serious problem. If your tooth has been bothering you, contact your Grand Prairie dentist today.