When Do You Need A Root Canal?
Root Canal Treatment, or just Root Canal, is the option preferred for saving a natural tooth in distress. Toothache signals that there is inflammation or infection in the pulp, that living component inside the tooth that goes down to the roots. Rich in nerves and blood supply, the pulp succumbs to bacterial infection and decays, leaving no option for it than to be taken out. Otherwise, the infection can destroy the entire tooth, spread to the surrounding soft tissue and bone.
It is not only pain that signals pulp distress, but sensitivity to heat or cold, tenderness when chewing or touching, discoloration of the tooth, swelling of the gums in the root area. Sometimes there is no pain at all. Beginning cavities and old, large fillings can give signals of pulp condition.On the other hand, there are cases when a root canal is not indicated, like in teeth with severely fractured roots, or if the tooth is already wobbly or loose in its socket, not having enough bone support.
Properly called endodontic treatment, it involves removal of the pulp all the way to the roots, the chambers cleaned and disinfected, and then filled and sealed with a rubber-like material (called gutta percha). If there is still tooth material left, it can be restored with filling material or with a crown to offer protection. You have saved the tooth and it is looking as natural as the rest.
Having Root Canal in Less Time at Bellingham
It cannot be stressed enough how important are regular dental visits. Here at Dr. Tetrick’s, our dental practice is geared more towards prevention. Every visit is a thorough oral examination to assess your oral health. If not extraction, should root canal be the option for you, rest assured that your Bellingham dentists’ modern techniques and facilities will get this otherwise lengthy procedure done in less time than most.