Patients tend to fear root canal treatment, which is actually quite ironic. The procedure is not very complicated as most people think, and it even helps relieve pain, not cause more. Unfortunately, a lot of people believed these misconceptions, this caused them to lose teeth which can still be saved if only they opted for a root canal treatment.
To clear the misunderstanding floating around about root canal, we at Dentistry of Kingwood prepared some must-know information about the said procedure.
First thing first, a root canal is a procedure performed by dentists to a tooth with a damaged or infected pulp. What happens is, the affected pulp and surrounding tissues inside the tooth will be eliminated to stop the infection from spreading and causing more trouble. The good news is, the root canal has a success rate of about 90 to 95 percent—giving patients a functional tooth after the treatment. If the patient maintains proper oral care, the treated tooth can last for a very long time. But, if longevity is the concern, nothing can still replace a healthy tooth.
Symptoms That Indicate the Need for a Root Canal Treatment
- Pain when chewing or biting
- Loose teeth
- Swelling gums near the infected tooth
- Facial swelling
- Sensitivity to hot and cold substances
- Oozing pus around the infected tooth
- Unprovoked or spontaneous pain
Aside from the ones listed above, there are instances when there are no manifestations. Fortunately, diagnosis is still possible through special tests or x-rays during routine visits or if the dentist is treating a different dental concern.
Wonder what the factors that can lead lead to pulp damage or disease are? If the patient develops decay under a deep filling, a trauma that damaged the tooth, habitual grinding of the teeth (bruxism), untreated tooth decay, advanced gum disease, and old cracks in the teeth.
Things to Expect if Infection is Left Untreated
Spread of infection
Once infection takes place, the pulp loses its ability to fight the spread of infection. And if the bacteria makes its way to the pulp chamber, they are more likely to multiply. As a result, it may lead to a severe infection or the formation of an abscess when it spreads into the bone.
Bone loss
The infection may spread around the ends of the root canal and cause the jawbone to wear down.
Tooth loss
If the infection continues to spread, the option left is to have the tooth removed. Once removed, the ability of a person to bite and chew, as well as their appearance, can be affected. Although there are restoration options available, the patient’s qualification may be questionable, especially if advanced tooth loss is already experienced.
Do not risk missing a tooth and other serious dental complications by acting immediately! If the dentist recommends a Root Canal Therapy in Kingwood, TX, make sure to contact us at Dentistry of Kingwood to get started.