Here's Why Your Root Canal Is Necessary
Posted on: 16 May 2022
If your dentist has advised you to get a root canal, you may feel as if it's the end of the world. Let's face it: root canals get a bad rap. People think they are painful or that they have lasting side effects, but this is not necessarily the truth.
Root canal treatments are meant to address dental infections that can become dangerous. If you are still deciding if you will follow through with the root canal procedure, this is what you need to know about the procedure.
Root Canals Treat Bacterial Infection
When your dentist recommends a root canal, it is because your dental structure is at risk of infection or has become infected. Often, x-rays reveal this infection during your regular dental exam. This infection can spread easily before you ever even realize it.
Inflammation and bacterial infection are dangerous when left untreated. These issues do not treat themselves, which is why you need to talk to a dentist about getting a root canal. Your pulp will not grow back or heal. Additionally, root canals become less effective the longer the infection is allowed to wreak havoc.
Root Canals Prevent the Spread of Health Issues
If the tooth is left in place, you could experience serious health consequences. Infection does not stay in the mouth. It actually spreads, which can lead to serious consequences for your health. In fact, an infection like this can become life-threatening if it is allowed to spread throughout your body.
Your Symptoms Will Grow
As your infection spreads, you will notice the pain growing as well. The initial symptoms that indicate you may need a root canal include sensitivity to hot and cold, pain while eating, and teeth becoming loose. Even if these symptoms disappear, you may notice new ones popping up.
The new symptoms that develop as soon as your infection progresses may include swelling of the gums and pus that oozes out of the tooth or gums. You may also notice swelling in your cheek, even if you don't experience dental pain. Discoloration and dental pain may develop seemingly at random.
Ask Questions Before the Root Canal
Before you make a decision about getting a root canal, speak with your dentist about your questions. Root canals can be intimidating, but they can be lifesaving in many situations. Treating the infection can prevent a variety of serious consequences and is ultimately beneficial for your dental health.
Share