Seven Reasons for Root Canals

A root canal is a dental procedure that removes decayed nerve and pulp from the tooth’s root system, yet preserves the integrity of the natural tooth. After the nerve and pulp have been removed, the tooth is sealed and usually protected with a single crown.

Routine professional cleanings can detect tooth decay before it settles into the pulp, therefore preventing the need for a root canal. Root canals are often a part of emergency dental services when a patient begins to feel discomfort and seeks out a dentist to resolve the problem.

If you have not had a professional cleaning and exam in a while, and you have consistent tooth pain, your need for a root canal may be caused by:

1. Fracture – Fractures can abscess caused by an infection in between the tooth and gum, and tooth-related abscess which takes place in the tooth at the tip of the root and then spreads to adjacent bone tissue.
2. Toothache – Severe toothache or pain, usually felt when eating hot or cold foods, while chewing or when applying pressure on the area. Other problems can mimic the pain of a toothache, and it is always best to check with a dentist who can look at the tooth and gums, and assess the health of the tooth’s pulp.
3. Deep Cavity – When dental caries causes large cavities to form in the teeth, a root canal can be performed to save the tooth and prevent further complications from developing. A deep cavity can be filled or capped with a crown, and after the decayed material has been removed, it will function as a natural teeth. 
4. Trauma – Teeth injuries can break the tooth structure, damaging or exposing the soft pulp and causing nerve trauma and pain. To save the tooth but rid the patient of pain, a root canal is performed and the cavity sealed and covered, depending on the severity and location of the injury.  
5. Fracture – Fractures can cause intermittent pain and often can be seen and confirmed via imaging, such as x-rays. As with other dental traumas, a fracture can cause the pulp to be exposed or damaged, requiring a root canal and covering to protect the remaining natural tooth and gum. 
6. Resorption – This uncommon condition occurs when the body’s cells turn on themselves and eat away at the tooth structure, leaving holes in teeth and root system. Unfortunately resorption can develop rapidly, and it’s best to get treatment as soon as possible to prevent the onset of further damage. Root canals can help with the pain, and stop the erosion before it kills the entire tooth. 
7. Repeated Dental Procedures – Recurring dental treatments can impact the teeth, placing a lot of stress on them and aggravating the pulp. When the pulp becomes inflamed, the tooth should be tested by the dentist in order to determine the best course of treatment. 

Contact the office of Dr. Heinrich-Null to schedule an appointment if you are experiencing dental pain or have not seen a dentist in over 6 months. Early detection helps to prevent the need for a root canal, but if you do indeed need one, this procedure will help save your tooth.