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Do I Need a Root Canal?

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Do I Need a Root Canal?

If your dentist recommends a root canal, your first reaction may be one of fear, especially if you believe root canal therapy’s bad reputation. root canalHowever, contrary to popular belief, this important procedure is easy and only takes about an hour, potentially saving your tooth from needing extraction. Find out more about root canal therapy and how to spot the signs you may need one with Dr. Carol Cunningham at Gentle Art of Dentistry in Decatur, IL.

Do I need a root canal?

You may need a root canal if you experience a toothache, broken tooth, or other trauma to the tooth. A root canal becomes necessary when the tooth’s inner pulp and nerves become damaged, causing pain and, if left untreated, an infection which can result in a dental abscess. While the most common cause of this damage is severe tooth decay, other factors can also damage these elements and make a root canal necessary to save the tooth. The root canal itself removes the damaged tissues and nerves from within the tooth, then fills the tooth to restore its natural structure.

Root Canals and Dental Crowns

Your dentist may also recommend a dental crown to cover the tooth and protect it from future damage. A crown fits over the top of the tooth and encompasses its sides to form a barrier between the tooth and everyday use. A crown ensures that, if the tooth endures trauma or damage again, the crown takes the brunt of the damage and gives the tooth an added layer of protection.

Why is a root canal important?

A root canal ensures that you do not need a full extraction of the tooth altogether. Though this option may seem like the easier route, missing teeth come with more side effects than just a gap. If left open, the teeth surrounding the gap could shift or move to compensate for the new extra space. Additionally, the bone beneath the tooth is no longer stimulated, causing bone atrophy.

Root Canal Therapy in Decatur, IL

For more information on root canals, please contact Dr. Carol Cunningham at Gentle Art of Dentistry in Decatur, IL. Call (217) 422-7448 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Cunningham today!