Ask the Dentist: Is Your Tooth Really Dead After a Root Canal?

Are you facing a dilemma about whether or not your tooth is dead after a root canal? Look no further – answers are here! Root canals have been around for centuries, but the process and what happens afterward still remain a mystery to many. Today we’ll take a closer look at the root cause of this question: Is your tooth really dead after a root canal?

What is a Root Canal?

Root canals provide you with an alternative to tooth extraction when infection and decay have compromised the integrity of the pulp of your tooth. If you have need of root canal therapy, you are part of a large number being treated each year. As a matter of fact, according to the American Association of Endodontists, more than 15 million root canals are performed each year. That’s 41,000 root canals a day, so it’s quite a common treatment. Root canal therapy perceptions formed decades ago before the introduction of modern technologies and anesthetics. Today, root canal treatment is no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed. Root canal therapy removes damaged tissue from inside your tooth that is causing you pain. At Stonebrook Family Dental, we can educate you on what to expect with root canal therapy and walk you through your options.

A root canal is a procedure that removes the damaged nerve tissue, or pulp, inside of your tooth. This process is typically performed to relieve pain when a cavity goes too deep and affects the nerves of the tooth. During this procedure, your dentist will remove any decayed parts of your tooth and clean out the area with special tools. Afterward, they will fill the area with a special material to seal the tooth and prevent future infection.

Who Needs Them?

Root canals are needed for a cracked tooth from injury or genetics, a deep cavity, or issues from a previous filling. Patients generally need a root canal when they notice their teeth are sensitive, particularly to hot and cold sensations. There are a few symptoms that mean you might need a root canal, such as:

• Severe pain while chewing or biting
• Pimples on the gums
• A chipped or cracked tooth
• Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, even after the sensation has been removed
• Swollen or tender gums
• Deep decay or darkening of the gums

So, Is Your Tooth Really Dead After a Root Canal?

In short, no – your tooth is not dead after a root canal procedure. Although the pulp inside of your tooth has been removed and replaced with material to fill in the area, the underlying structure of your tooth is still alive and healthy. The procedure does not cause any permanent damage, and the tooth can still be used for daily activities such as chewing and biting.

Following a root canal, it is important to continue proper dental care by brushing twice a day, flossing at least once daily, and visiting your dentist regularly. This will ensure that your root canal treated tooth remains healthy and lasts for years to come.

Benefits of Saving Your Natural Tooth

There are many clinical reasons for needing root canal treatment, but there are also countless practical reasons why saving the natural tooth is a wise choice. Endodontic treatment helps you maintain your natural smile, continue eating the foods you love and limits the need for ongoing dental work. With proper care, most teeth that have had root canal treatment can last a lifetime.

Virtually Pain-Free Procedure

Root canal treatment is virtually painless and often leaves you with less discomfort during recovery than if you have your natural tooth extracted. Thanks to modern techniques and effective anesthesia, patients who experience root canals are six times more likely to describe it as painless than patients who have a tooth extracted.

Efficient & Cost-Effective

Tooth extraction can take longer than root canal treatment due to follow-up appointments required for a denture, bridge or implant; plus the cost may be higher. Most dental insurance plans cover endodontic treatment.

Visually Appealing Result

Crowns not only function like natural teeth; they look great, too. Improve your smile and laugh out loud again with root canal treatment.

Take the time to learn more about root canal treatment and some of the common misconceptions about it and then take the first step to a pain-free, healthy mouth by visiting an endodontist near you.

Make an Appointment with Stonebrook Family Dental

At Stonebrook Family Dental, we are committed to providing you with excellent care and personalized treatment. We understand the importance of preserving your natural teeth and offer root canal therapy as one way to do so. Contact us today for an appointment and let us help you maintain a healthy smile!