Under what circumstances do I need to get a root canal?
When you are experiencing serious tooth decay, infection or damage, your dentist may recommend a root canal treatment, which helps to save the tooth and the tissues around it before it's too late.
The pulp, which is a small tissue in your tooth, can get infected if you have a deep cavity, a cracked/injured tooth, or if you have repeatedly performed dental procedures on one tooth, disturbing its tissue. This must be treated or else pain around the tooth will intensify, abscess might form due to infection, which puts one at risk of losing the tooth completly.
Root canal treatment procedures
Getting a root canal treatment might sound intimidating to some individuals, but there is nothing to worry about. Firstly, x-rays will be performed on the patient to capture the root of the problem. Then, the dentist will numb the patient with local anesthesia, so as to ensure that the patient is comfortable throughout the procedure. The treatment starts when the dentist drills a hole on the top of the tooth, and removes the nerve from the root canal. Then, we clean the root canals and fill them with composites. The dentist will place a temporary crown on the tooth, and the crown will be delivered to the patient on their next visit. Root canal treatments are 95% successful, and can last a lifetime if maintained well.
This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
Brian Y. Kuo DDS FAGD
(626) 800-8022