When faced with severe dental damage, it is important for patients to pursue restorative treatment as soon as possible. The longer that the patient waits to see a dentist, the more likely it becomes that he or she will develop long-term oral health complications.
One of the most effective treatments utilized to treat serious dental damage is root canal therapy. Although root canals are feared by many, the truth is that this treatment is quite straightforward, and can literally save teeth that would otherwise be lost. Keep reading to learn more from our Toluca Lake root canal dentists…
What is Root Canal Therapy?
During root canal treatment, our dentist goes into the core of the tooth and removes damaged and vulnerable material—including all dental pulp and tooth roots. Then, the remaining outer structure of the tooth is sterilized, and the inner cavity is filled and restored. The goal of root canal treatment is to save as much viable enamel and dentin as possible so that the tooth does not fall out or need to be pulled.
When and Why Root Canals Are Done
Root canal treatment becomes necessary when a tooth is damaged, not just superficially, but all the way into the dental pulp (the innermost part of the tooth). While minor cavities and damage can be treated with simple fillings and restorations, compromised pulp requires more extensive treatment. The inner core of the tooth may be compromised due to acute dental damage—say a deep crack or chip—or it may be due to an infection that has worked its way through the enamel and dentin.
A root canal is necessary because, if left unaddressed, this type of severe infection can spread to other teeth, and the damage can destabilize your entire smile. By completing a root canal, we stop the progression of the damage, restore the tooth’s appearance, and rebuild the missing dental structure so that the tooth can function normally.
Our Toluca Lake root canal dentists are here to answer any questions that you may have about this vital restorative treatment option. Please, don’t put off the care you need due to fear or anxiety—we are here to help you!