At first mention, root canal treatment (RCT) can cause seem people to pause and consider its necessity. Given the nature of the procedure, which involves cleaning away damaged tissues from the inside of your tooth, many people assume that the procedure is going to be painful. The truth, however, is that if you need root canal treatment, then your tooth is probably already in the throes of tooth discomfort. By removing the infected, necrotic nerves and tissues, root canal treatment can help alleviate your toothache and restore its good health and function.
How is a Root Canal Treated?
If you’ve been told that you need root canal treatment, then your tooth is severely infected, and close to being lost. The need for treatment stems from the bacterial infection, tooth decay—the same condition that leads to cavity development. As bacteria settle in and erode your tooth’s structure, they can eventually reach the nerves and blood vessels at the center (housed in a hollow chamber called the pulp). Eventually, the decay can completely consume the tooth. Before then, though, your tooth might be saved by removing the infection, sealing the tooth’s root and canal to prevent the spread of bacteria, and then reinforcing the tooth with a dental filling and crown.
Could I Have Prevented This?
Designed to address the later stages of tooth decay, root canal treatment is often a last resort (next to extracting the tooth), and can be avoided by preventing the progression of tooth decay. A product of excessive oral bacteria, which can be found hiding in the plaque that clings to your teeth, decay can be prevented with good hygiene and dental care. We advise brushing and flossing the plaque from your teeth at least twice every day, and attending a dental checkup and cleaning every six months (or more often, if specifically recommended). Good daily hygiene will control your mouth’s bacteria population and reduce your risk of tooth decay and cavity development. During your routine visits to our office, we can thoroughly clean away the plaque and tartar that you may have missed, and check for signs of early decay to prevent it from progressing.
ABOUT YOUR SOUTHLAKE DENTISTS:
As a native Texan, Gregory Wright, DDS, opened his private practice in Southlake, TX in 1992. He and Dr. Victoria Heron are happily accepting new patients from Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, Trophy Club, Colleyville, and all surrounding communities. To learn more, call our office today at (817) 481-7999.
