How Does Root Canal Therapy Save Your Tooth?

Tooth decay and gum disease are both chronic, progressive diseases. A progressive disease is one that progresses, worsens, or spreads until it is treated. Tooth decay, in particular, can progress so deeply within a tooth that the only option to stop the pain and spread of the disease is a dental extraction. At earlier points of the tooth decay progression, treatment can stop the decay from reaching the point of a necessary extraction. A filling can be done to stop tooth decay, if the damage has not yet reached the inner area of the tooth. Once decay or infection has reached the inner pulp of the tooth, root canal therapy may be necessary. 

What Is Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy is also known as endodontic treatment. During root canal therapy, your dentist will provide local anesthesia to the tooth and surrounding areas. Using small tools, your dentist will create a route to the inner pulp of your tooth, where the nerves and soft tissue live. Your dentist will carefully remove any bacteria and damaged pulp. The tooth will be disinfected completely to stop the spread of any infection and to prevent further damage. These tissues will be replaced and a temporary crown will be placed atop the tooth. A permanent crown, such as a zirconia crown, can be custom-made and fitted to the tooth for long-lasting protection.

How Does It Save Your Tooth?

Root canal therapy can be used not only to treat severe tooth decay, but it may also be necessary for teeth damaged by accident or injury. Any time that the inner pulp and nerves of a tooth have been impacted, treatment is important to stop the spread of bacteria. If the inner pulp of a tooth becomes infected, it can lead to an abscess, which can be dangerous if spread to other parts of the body. Once an abscess spreads too deeply, the tooth may need to be pulled for your protection and to stop the pain. A root canal can stop the spread before that is necessary.

Root canal therapy can save your tooth

Stop the progression of tooth damage with root canal therapy. Schedule a consultation at Lone Star Dental in Frisco, TX office at 972-335-7100.