Most patients consider root canal therapy to be one of the most extreme dental procedures available. Unfortunately, many patients avoid this necessary treatment because they’re afraid that it will be painful or traumatic. In reality root canal treatment can be as comfortable as a regular filling—many patients are just relying on cultural misconceptions! However, root canal therapy is an extreme treatment in one respect—it can literally save your tooth, its functionality, and your smile!
Root canal treatment is needed when a tooth is severely damaged or infected. A variety of dental situations may call for root canal—and if you or someone you know is suffering from any of these conditions it’s important to seek professional treatment right away.
If cavities and dental infections are left untreated, they can contribute to extensive dental decay. Cavities begin with the dental enamel, however, the infection can spread through the enamel to the dentin and finally to the dental pulp. Dental pulp is made up of blood vessels and nerves—when it’s exposed or infected it can become quite painful.
When the infection reaches the dentin it may be necessary for a patient to undergo root canal therapy. A dental professional can preserve healthy tooth structure and restore a tooth’s functionality by clearing away the diseased pulp, sterilizing the tooth, and then resealing the enamel so that you can chew, speak and smile normally.
Another possible scenario involves patients who have survived dental damage or trauma. Other than an infection, dental accidents are the greatest risk to a patient’s oral health and smile. If a tooth is cracked or chipped so extensively that the dental pulp is exposed, a root canal may be required to prevent further complications. Exposed dental pulp is not only painful, but it can easily become infected, leading to dental abscesses, gum and bone deterioration.
Our Longmont root canal office utilizes the latest dental technology with sedation methods in order to keep our patients calm and comfortable during treatment. Dental problems, due either to infection or trauma, are very serious matters. The faster you seek treatment, the less likely it is that you’ll suffer from further long-term bone and tooth loss. Want to talk to a Longmont root canal dentist? Just give us a call—(303) 776-4229—we’re here to help!