Why is a Root Canal the Answer to Infection and Decay?

A root canal is a last-ditch effort to save a viable tooth that’s been ravaged by decay and infection. Without the procedure, most teeth that are recommended for root canal have to be removed in order to prevent severe, painful and sometimes life-threatening dental infections.

Root canals are performed to relieve pain, stop infection and promote healing. During the procedure, the pulp is removed– soft tissues and nerves found in the center of the tooth – and fills the remaining cavity with medications and a special filling. After the procedure, a crown is often placed over the tooth.

If you’ve been told you need a root canal, putting off the procedure can have devastating consequences. If you think you may need this vital procedure, make an appointment with our general dentist, Dr. Hauser, at Lakefront Family Dentistry today. You can do so by calling the office at (951) 244-9495 or going online today.

Painful Consequences of Avoiding Root Canal Dentistry

Putting off or avoiding a root canal can have devastating consequences. In fact, patients who need a root canal only have two options, which are to have the root canal or to have the tooth removed.

The following are consequences of not getting any dental treatment.

• When an infection forms in the pulp of a tooth, it can spread to the gum and jawbone. In severe cases, multiple teeth and even part of the jawbone may need to be removed to get rid of the infection.

• Unfortunately, antibiotic treatment does not permanently resolve an infected tooth. If the tooth is not removed or a root canal performed, the infection will return and it could become quite serious.

• Unchecked dental infections can have serious consequences, including sepsis, cellulitis, bacterial endocarditis, heart attack, stroke or death.

As mentioned, root canals are recommended as a last-ditch effort. Dentists only recommend them when there are no other options. Without a root canal, severe dental infections only get worse and will spread to surrounding tissues and bones.

Why Root Canals Are Better than Tooth Removal

Just as there are negative consequences that go along with avoiding root canal dentistry, there are several benefits associated with having a root canal performed.

Here are a few reasons why getting a root canal is better than having a tooth removed.

• A root canal saves the infected tooth, which preserves the natural appearance of the teeth, resulting in a more attractive smile.

• Preserving the tooth promotes efficient chewing and protects surrounding teeth from excessive or unusual wear.
• Root canals limit the need for further dental work and prevent future infections.

• After a root canal, patients are able to enjoy eating all the foods they love. After tooth removal, this is often not the case.

If you have painful or infected teeth, make an appointment with Lakefront Family Dentistry to determine whether or not a root canal is applicable in your individual situation. To make an appointment, call or go online today. During your appointment, Dr. Hauser, a general dentist with over 22 years of experience will help you decide on the best course of treatment. Don’t Delay; Reach Out Today at (951) 244-9495.