Elmhurst Root Canal Dentist Explains What Conditions Necessitate Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is a sometimes a necessary and even tooth-saving treatment. Although modern dentistry has brought root canal therapy—it’s faster and more comfortable than ever—it’s still best from a health perspective to prevent the serious dental conditions that necessitate root canal therapy. In this article we’ll review some ways that teeth become compromised, eventually leading to root canal treatment. It’s my hope that once you understand how dental problems progress, you can effectively avoid these problems through diligent dental care.
Our Elmhurst root canal dentists treat patients of many different ages, backgrounds, and dental histories. When a patient needs root canal therapy it means that his or her tooth has been damaged to such an extent that the inner core, or pulp of the tooth is compromised. Through root canal therapy we are able to clear away the damaged pulp, clean the infected tooth, and reseal it—allowing it to retain its functionality.
So how do patients get to the point of needing root canal treatment?
1. They have a serious dental infection. Cavities, if left untreated, will erode the out surface of the tooth and infect the dental pulp. Once an infection progresses to this point, a root canal will probably be necessary to save the tooth and prevent the infection from spreading throughout the mouth.
2. Shrinking amalgam fillings. Old metal fillings can shrink with age, causing them to pull away from edges of the tooth. Consequently, bacteria become trapped under the filling, hurting the dental pulp.
3. Dental trauma or fracture. If your tooth becomes chipped or cracked due to accident, your dental pulp may be damaged under the surface of the tooth. A dental professional can evaluate the health of your damaged tooth and determine whether or not you need root canal therapy.
Root canal therapy can save your tooth and the health of your smile. If your have any questions or you’d like to discuss your case further, give our Elmhurst root canal dental office a call for more information!