Whenever the subject of root canals come up, everyone is suddenly busy, and no one wants to talk about it. 

 

As humans, we’re guilty of doing this, too. But, as dentists, we greatly encourage you to talk with your dental care provider about root canals, especially if your tooth pain is severe or an abscess is about to occur. 

 

Continue reading to learn more about root canals, including:

 

  • What exactly root canals are
  • How is a root canal performed
  • Who needs root canal
  • & more 

ROOT CANALS: WHAT ARE THEY?

Let’s start with the basics–your tooth. 

 

A tooth has two main structures: the crown (covered with enamel) and the root (embedded in the jaw). Then, there is the makeup of the tooth, including: 

 

  • Enamel: the hard shell layer on the crown. It is the hardest substance on the body. 
  • Dentine: the substance that makes up the majority of the tooth. If the enamel is lost, your teeth can become sensitive. 
  • Pulp: extends between the crown and the tip of the root and is the soft tissue that contains blood and nerve supply to the tooth. 
  • Cementum: a layer of bone-like tissue that covers the root. 

 

When an individual needs a root canal, it means that their tooth has become decayed and that the pulp in their tooth has become infected or inflamed, which can lead to an abscess. A root canal is a straightforward procedure to relieve dental pain. 

 

During your treatment, the pulp in your teeth will be removed; then the area will be cleaned and disinfected. Then, a filling in placed to seal the area.

 

While many patients we’ve seen have heard horror stories of root canals, we can say that modern-day root canals are equal to other routine dental treatments. 

WHO NEEDS ROOT CANAL?

 

Root canals are seen as a last resort by many people. Whether it’s due to the myths associated with a root canal or the painful way the word sounds, we get it. However, root canals can be a viable option for saving a tooth, and there are many reasons to talk with your dentist about this procedure, including: 

 

  • Experiencing pain in your tooth or swollen gums 
  • Feeling sensitive to hot or cold foods and beverages
  • Seeing your tooth become discolored
  • Having a chipped or broken tooth

IS IT BETTER TO PULL A TOOTH THAN HAVE A ROOT CANAL TREATMENT? 

 

According to the American Association of Endodontists, saving a natural tooth is the best option possible. Why? A natural tooth has not only a different look but also a different function than a man-made tooth. 

 

Additionally, while a root canal can take one to two appointments, replacing a natural tooth that has been removed with an implant or a bridge can require extra time and further procedures to surrounding teeth and tissue.

FINDING THE BEST DENTAL OPTION AT THE LANDING DENTAL SPA | ROOT CANALS

Root canal

 

At The Landing Dental Spa, our dental staff is committed to finding our patients the best treatment option based on their oral care goals. That’s why we sit down with you to discuss your options in detail and plan accordingly.

 

If you are experiencing pain in your tooth, swollen gums, sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages, or your tooth has become discolored, chipped, or broken, we encourage you to seek dental care for your provider as they may be able to save your natural tooth. 

 

If you need to speak with one of our dentists, please give us a call at (304) 594-2200.