How Root Canal Therapy Treats Decayed Teeth?
Are you experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity? Do you have a decayed tooth that’s causing discomfort and making it difficult to eat or speak? If so, root canal therapy might be the solution you’ve been searching for! While many people dread the thought of getting a root canal, this common dental procedure can actually help save your natural teeth and restore your oral health
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a treatment used to save a tooth that has been severely damaged or infected. The procedure involves removing the damaged or infected tissue from inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and then filling and sealing the tooth.
When a tooth becomes decayed, the decay can spread to the sensitive root of the tooth. This can cause an infection or inflammation of the tooth, known as pulpitis. If left untreated, pulpitis can lead to an abscessed tooth, which is a serious dental condition. Root canal therapy is used to treat pulpitis and other conditions that affect the tooth’s root.
Reasons for Needing Root Canal Therapy
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
• Preserving the natural tooth
• Preventing further damage to the tooth
• Avoiding the need for a dental implant or bridge
• Reducing pain and sensitivity
• Restoring chewing function
• Improving the appearance
Aftercare Instructions for Root Canal Therapy
• Avoid chewing on hard objects or eating hard foods for the first 24 hours after your root canal therapy.
• Take over-the-counter pain medication as needed for discomfort.
• Apply a cold compress to the outside of your face for 10 minutes at a time to help with any swelling.
• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day to help keep the area clean and free of infection.
• Follow up with your Overland Park dentist as scheduled for any additional appointments or treatments.
Alternatives to Root Canal Therapy
There are a few alternatives to root canal therapy. One is known as extraction, which is when the tooth is pulled. This is usually only recommended when the tooth is severely decayed or damaged. Another option is called a dental implant, which is when a metal screw is placed into the jawbone and a fake tooth is attached to it. This option is usually more expensive and invasive than root canal therapy.
Root canal therapy is a great way to treat decayed teeth and restore your healthy smile. It offers longlasting results, no matter how severe the decay is, and can help you avoid having to have more invasive treatments in the future. During the procedure, it’s important for you to stay relaxed and follow your dentist’s instructions so that everything goes smoothly.