A root canal is a routine dental procedure used to treat badly decayed or infected teeth. The object of the procedure is to remove damaged pulp from the inside of the tooth’s roots, disinfect the area, fill the now empty canal, and seal the tooth. At Arizona Smile Designers, we know that this procedure can sound scary to some of our patients in Cottonwood, AZ, so we’re here to offer some reassurance, and point out the greater risk involved in avoiding root canals when they are called for.
When a cavity becomes very deep or if a tooth is damaged, the pulp inside the tooth’s roots can become infected. This is often painful and exposes the tissue surrounding the infected area to bacteria. The pain of an infected root canal will be especially intense when biting down and can cause sensitivity to hot and cold. The infection may also cause fever, tenderness, and swelling in the face, jaw, and lymph nodes. Once the infection reaches the root, it cannot be treated effectively with antibiotics, and a root canal is necessary to clean out, disinfect, and salvage the tooth.
When you avoid getting a root canal, you are giving a potentially dangerous infection the opportunity to spread. Not only will the pain continue to intensify, but the infection may also spread into the gums and tissues of the mouth, causing you to lose a tooth or even part of your jaw. If the infection is allowed to persist and spread it can cause dental abscesses, stroke, heart attack, or sepsis, an inflammatory response that can cause the organs to fail.
Thanks to modern dental technology, a root canal is no more uncomfortable than getting a cavity filled. Local anesthesia will be administered before the procedure begins. A tiny hole is drilled into the tooth, and small files are used to remove the infected pulp. Once the tooth is clear of infection and clean, the canals are filled with a natural plastic called gutta-percha, and the tooth is sealed. After a root canal, the patient may return to normal activities immediately, but the tooth will need to be fitted with a crown to protect it from fractures.
If you’ve been recommended to get a root canal, or if you believe your tooth may be infected, contact Arizona Smile Designers and we will address any questions and concerns you may have. Request an appointment and explore the many ways you can transform your oral health and enhance the aesthetics of your smile!
