When it comes to your oral health, preventing a problem is preferable to treating one. If you do develop an issue, restorative treatments are available to return your tooth to good health. A root canal is a process where your dentist identifies and removes an infection that has infiltrated the pulp of your tooth. Because your pulp contains living tissue, an infection can be especially uncomfortable, and can jeopardize the overall health of your tooth. A root canal treatment can spare a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted.

Root Canals And Cavities

Root canals are often associated with cavities. If you make regular visits to your dentist, you improve your chances of having a cavity treated before it has passed through your enamel. In these cases, your dentist can remove the decay, and restore your tooth with a filling. A root canal is used to treat an advanced cavity, one that has entered your pulp. Your dentist will excise the infected tissue at the center of your tooth, while leaving the outer area of your tooth in place. Because this process can remove a considerable amount of your tooth, you may need a dental crown to restore your tooth.

Root Canals And Physical Trauma

A cracked tooth can be vulnerable to infection. If you have hurt your tooth in an injury, your dentist may need to perform a root canal. It is important to note that physical trauma can damage your tissue even if it does not crack. If your tooth becomes discolored or especially sensitive after an injury, you should have your dentist examine it, and determine if a root canal is needed.