Have you received information from dentists that you need to undergo root canal therapy? The information would likely have scared you setting you thinking you must endure immense pain when the dentist performs root canal therapy. Your thinking is not unjustified because many myths surround this treatment helping to relieve pain in your tooth. H

Hearing about root canal treatment shouldn’t scare you because millions of teeth are treated every year with endodontic treatment. This blog explains the benefits of root canal treatment because it helps relieve your tooth pain and preserves your smile.

Understanding Root Canal Treatment

If you want to understand root canal therapy, it helps to have some information about your tooth’s anatomy. Your tooth has an outer layer called enamel, and beneath it exists a hard layer called dentin. Beneath the dentin is a soft layer called pulp containing blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue, creating the tooth’s surrounding hard tissues in the developmental stages.

The pulp extends from the top of the tooth to the roots’ tip connecting to the tissues surrounding the core. The pulp is essential during the developmental stages of the tooth. However, after a tooth matures, it survives without the pulp because it receives nourishment from the surrounding tissues.

If you are recommended root canal therapy, it is apparent that the pulp inside the root canal is infected or inflamed. Various reasons are responsible for the infection or inflammation. You may have deep decay on the tooth or a chip or crack. Additionally, damages to the pulp are caused by injuries even though the tooth does not display any chips or cracks. When you leave the pulp infection untreated, it causes pain and an abscess eventually.

Will the Treated Tooth Need Special Attention after Root Canal Treatment?

You must avoid chewing or biting with the treated tooth until it is restored by your dentist. The treated tooth without restoration is susceptible to fractures. It is why you must see your regular dentist for a full repair as soon as you can. Until you can visit your dentist, you must practice good oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and having regular dental checkups and cleanings.

Most teeth undergoing root canal treatments last for as long as other natural teeth. Occasionally the treated tooth does not heal or continues to remain painful. The occurrence can happen months or years later. In such cases, root canal therapy becomes essential again and helps to preserve the tooth.