Your natural teeth are the best possible option when it comes to biting, chewing, talking and more; that said, modern dentistry often prioritizes a conservative approach, meaning that if it’s possible, your dentist will do everything they can to preserve your pearly whites. Root canal therapy is one treatment option that allows them to do this, and despite what you might’ve heard about this procedure, it’s actually one of the best possible methods of salvaging a compromised tooth. However, is it only used in dire and painful circumstances? Keep reading to learn more about root canal therapy and why you don’t always have to be in pain to receive it.
Common Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
Consistent oral pain is one of the most common symptoms of needing a root canal, but it’s far from the only one. Other warning signs include:
- Chipped or cracked teeth – Your teeth can become chipped or cracked from eating hard foods, suffering physical trauma, or when a previous dental procedure goes awry. That said, this type of injury sometimes must be treated with root canal therapy to prevent any possible infection from spreading to the tooth’s root and entering the bloodstream.
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures – If hot drinks like coffee and tea or cold treats like ice cream cause discomfort and sensitivity, a root canal might be the solution to address damaged blood vessels and nerve endings.
- Swollen gums – Swollen gums usually indicate a problem hiding beneath the surface. If your gums become swollen, painful, or have raised bumps on them, a root canal can sometimes be an effective solution.
- Dark discoloration – Discolored teeth are often the result of poor hygiene and/or exposure to foods and drinks with staining agents and high amounts of sugar. That said, it can sometimes be caused by nerve or blood vessel damage, and a root canal is the best way to remove the damaged root.
- Deep decay – Once deep decay has settled into the base of your tooth, no amount of brushing can reverse it. If it’s neglected for too long, a cavity will form and spread to the root of your tooth, necessitating root canal therapy to salvage the tooth!
Why Root Canals Aren’t as Bad as You Think
Root canals have an unfair reputation; despite anecdotes and what you’ve seen on television, they aren’t nearly as scary or painful as they’re made out to be! Since the affected area is thoroughly numbed prior to the treatment, most patients find the process to be no more painful than receiving a filling. Plus, the process is designed to remove the infected/decayed part of your tooth and seal it back up with a crown, giving your tooth a second chance to function and feel like normal. Simply put, you have no reason to be worried!
If your dentist has informed you that it’s time for you to receive a root canal, don’t be surprised if you haven’t been experiencing any pain. Sometimes it’s simply the best solution for saving your tooth from a variety of different problems!
About the Practice
Flenniken Family Dentistry proudly serves patients and families in the Carlisle, PA area. The practice houses five incredible specialists: Dr. Neil Flenniken, Dr. Suzan Rismani-Flenniken, Dr. Joseph Olivetti, Dr. Marvin Berger, and Dr. Stephen Capiotis. Together they combine several years of experience and expertise to provide patients with an elite level of dental care. Their practice is pleased to offer many available services including root canal therapy. If you have any questions about root canal therapy or would like to schedule an appointment, please visit the practice’s website or give them a call at (717) 249-7777.
