When there is a problem with your tooth, your dentist will recommend the most effective treatment available that will preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible. Depending on the level of decay, this could mean a filling or crown. But if the infection has spread to the pulp of your tooth, a root canal may be your best option to promote jaw bone density and create an extremely natural looking restoration. Although it is commonly portrayed in a negative light, root canal therapy carries a multitude of oral health benefits.

What is the Purpose of Root Canal Therapy

Anytime you are experiencing discomfort, your main goal is usually to alleviate the pain and fix the problem. This is exactly the same goal your dentist has when he or she recommends a root canal. By removing infection and all the nerves from the deep chambers of your tooth, your pain should immediately disappear and never return. Not only will your pain be gone, but most of your natural tooth structure will remain intact to preserve your jaw bone strength and allow for an aesthetically pleasing crown to be permanently attached.

Who is a Candidate

Many times, this procedure becomes necessary when a tooth that had previous dental work begins to cause discomfort again. Fillings can crack or leak, and crowns can become loose overtime allowing bacteria to seep back into your tooth. In some cases, a tooth may have needed treatment long ago and the patient decided to postpone due to a phobia or other circumstances. Allowing a tooth to go untreated may cause infection to reach deep into the tooth, making a root canal extremely necessary to alleviate the pain and regain normal function. Severe toothache, prolonged sensitivity to temperature changes, and pain or swelling of nearby gum tissue may all be symptoms that root canal therapy is needed; although sometimes there are no symptoms at all.

ABOUT YOUR CONROE GENERAL DENTIST:

The Dental Centre of Conroe, John M Richards DDS delivers distinctive cosmetic, restorative, and implant dentistry for residents of Conroe, Houston, The Woodlands, Willis, Huntsville, and the neighboring communities. For more information about our services, or to schedule an appointment, contact us by calling (936) 441-4600.