25 Apr What Causes the Need for a Root Canal?
Root canals often inspire fear and apprehension in patients. However, with continuous developments in dentistry, you can expect to feel no pain and little to no discomfort during your root canal procedure. With that said, root canals should be the last resort. Here at Koch Aesthetics, one of our goals is to assist you in taking care of your teeth and help you avoid invasive procedures. Keep reading to find out what causes the need for root canals and what you can do to prevent them.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a treatment used to fix a badly infected or decayed tooth. A tooth consists of four distinct types of tissue: pulp, dentin, enamel, and cementum.
- Pulp is the tooth’s innermost layer and consists of connective tissues, blood vessels, and nerves.
- Dentin is a hard yellow substance that surrounds and protects the pulp.
- Enamel is the hardest tissue in the body. It coats the dentin and makes up the outermost layer of the tooth.
- Cementum covers the outside of the tooth root, inside the gum line, holding it in place.
When a tooth’s nerve and pulp become irritated, inflamed, or infected due to decay, a root canal is necessary to stop the pain and save the tooth.
Why Are Root Canals Necessary?
As mentioned before, a root canal may be necessary when the tooth’s pulp becomes infected, irritated, or infected. It usually takes a while for this to occur, and warning signs like cavities can be seen months before a root canal becomes necessary. Take a look at some examples of things that can lead to a root canal:
Failure to Floss
Neglecting to brush and floss your teeth regularly can result in an array of issues like bad breath, tooth decay, gum inflammation, and, you guessed it, the need for a root canal. When you brush your teeth, you remove the biofilm of bacteria that forms on your enamel. If not removed properly, this biofilm turns into plaque and increases the likelihood that you’ll need a root canal. Flossing is equally important because it helps clean those hard-to-reach areas between your teeth.
Skipping Regular Dental Visits
Regular check-ups and dental cleanings are one of the best ways to prevent the need for a root canal. Your dentist can spot any cavities, plaque, and decay before it becomes a problem. If you are due for your check-up or dental cleaning, give us a call. A quick preventative visit can mean a difference between a simple treatment or a more invasive and more expensive procedure.
Gum Disease
Periodontal disease attacks the tissue of the gums, making them less effective at keeping your teeth in place. Gum’s soft tissue also helps provide blood flow to the teeth, and prolonged gum disease can make it more likely that you’ll experience tooth decay and may require a root canal. If you have symptoms like bleeding gums or gum discoloration, it’s best to come in for a check-up to determine if you are suffering from gum disease.
Teeth Grinding
Grinding can damage the teeth and cause tooth fractures or cracks. Bacteria can enter the tooth through cracks and cause decay that eventually leads to a root canal. Additionally, clenching your teeth can permanently damage the root and may require a root canal to repair it. If you believe you are grinding your teeth, come in for a consultation at Koch Aesthetic Dentistry. A simple solution like a mouthguard can help keep your teeth safe and healthy.
How Do I Know if I Need a Root Canal?
Some symptoms can help give you a clue regarding a possible need for a root canal. If you need a root canal, you may notice symptoms like:
- Sharp pain when chewing and biting
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Lingering tooth sensitivity to hot or cold
- Deep tooth decay
- Darkened gums
- Swollen or painful gums
The best way to find out if a root canal could help address your dental pain is by consulting your dentist. Koch Aesthetics are only a phone call away. Contact us today, and we will get you sorted!
Koch Aesthetic Dentistry For Your Root Canal Needs
Persistent tooth pain, tooth sensitivity, and deep decay can all indicate that you need a root canal. Delaying proper dental treatment can result in further damage, more expensive treatments, and even tooth loss. If you think you may require a root canal, contact us today and schedule an appointment with Dr. Koch.