If you have ever experienced a severe, throbbing toothache, you were probably eager to consent to your dentist’s treatment recommendation. However, your feelings may be quite different if you feel fine, but then your dentist informs you that you need root canal therapy. You might understandably be reluctant to move forward with the procedure! However, the chances are good that your dentist’s recommendation is accurate. This blog post discusses why root canal therapy might be necessary even if you are not in pain.
Why Is Root Canal Therapy Necessary?
Teeth have three main layers. The innermost layer, known as the pulp, contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. When the pulp incurs damage or an infection, root canal therapy is often the best way to remove the affected tissue and preserve the tooth.
In many cases, an infection in the dental pulp causes extreme pain. However, some infections do not cause any pain at all! The only way to recognize them is with the help of a qualified dental professional.
It is also worth noting that an infection can kill the nerve inside the tooth. Often, before that happens, patients experience a severe toothache. Then, the pain suddenly disappears because the nerve loses its ability to send pain signals to the brain. However, the infection can continue to spread into nearby tissues and cause widespread damage if it is not addressed in a timely manner.
Signs Root Canal Therapy May Be Necessary
Aside from pain, there are other indications that root canal therapy might be necessary. Here are some signs that you should request a dental appointment ASAP:
- There are visible signs of damage to a tooth, such as chips or cracks.
- You have a pimple-like bump on your gums.
- A tooth is experiencing heightened sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
- A tooth is a darker color than the ones around it.
Remember, teeth cannot heal themselves, so you should not expect dental problems to go away on their own. Delaying a trip to your dentist’s office will only give the issue an opportunity to worsen. The more advanced it becomes, the more difficult it can be to treat. You might even end up losing the tooth altogether!
What to Expect with Root Canal Therapy
If your dentist advises you that you need root canal therapy, it would be best to schedule the procedure as soon as you can. There is no need to be afraid of it. With the help of sedation and anesthesia, you can expect to feel little to nothing during your appointment. After a brief recovery period and the placement of a high-quality crown, you should be able to enjoy a strong smile that is at a reduced risk of future pain and tooth loss.
Meet the Practice
Westgate Dental Care is home to seven talented dentists, all of whom are passionate about providing top-quality care. We never recommend treatments unless we truly believe they are in our patients’ best interests. If you believe you need root canal therapy or another procedure, you can trust us to provide an honest evaluation of the situation. To learn more about us and how we may be able to assist you, contact our Arlington Heights, IL, office at 847-577-7171.