When a tooth gets infected, dentists have two remedies: removing the bacteria from the root canal system or extracting the tooth entirely. Keeping as many natural teeth in the mouth as possible is preferable. An artificial tooth can never replace the look or function of a natural tooth.
How it works
A root canal has four major stages: preparation, pulp removal, cleaning and sealing the crown. Sometimes, the treatment is carried out in several sessions. In the preparation stage, the dentist will take a series of X-rays to determine if the pulp, the soft tissue of nerves and blood vessels, is inflamed or infected. The dentist will then assess the extent of bacterial damage and determine what treatment is necessary.
The dentist will then use an anesthetic to numb the tooth during the procedure. Any infected pulp will be removed and pus will be drained. After the dead or infected pulp gets removed, the root canal will be cleared of any remaining bacteria with a disinfectant solution. It will then be permanently filled and sealed with a ceramic cap called a crown to prevent breakage. Once the process is complete, the tooth can function normally.
A treated tooth can last anywhere from 8 to 10 years. However, with good oral hygiene and frequent dental checkups, it can last even longer.
When is it necessary?
If a bacterial infection is present, or the pulp is dying, bacteria can multiply and spread. This is when a root canal is necessary. However, there can be times when none of the regular symptoms are present, meaning that the infection has already spread through the root canal system. Be sure to keep up with your regular dental check-ups to ensure that you are not getting any infections.
Pain is the clearest indicator that there is an infection present. Other signs include sensitivity to heat or cold, tenderness, swelling, presence of pus and discolouration of the tooth and gums. The most accurate way of catching an infection is by dental X-ray.
If an infection is left untreated, bacteria will multiply and spread into the surrounding bone and tissues through the roots. This could cause severe pain, headache and tooth loss. Antibiotics may keep the infection from spreading, but the only sure way of removing the infection completely is by performing a root canal.
Root canal vs. tooth extraction
The main difference between the two procedures is that a root canal works to save a damaged tooth while an extraction removes the tooth completely. With an extraction, the tooth loses all its functionality, whereas a root canal can allow for the tooth to be repaired. Although relatively expensive, the root canal is almost always recommended as a better option because it retains the tooth’s normal biting force, chewing ability and appearance. Tooth extraction, on the other hand, can lead to sunken cheeks, speech issues and a loss of lip support depending on the tooth. However, if a cavity is very deep and it extends below the gum line, a tooth extraction may be necessary.
The only way to know if you require a root canal is by visiting a dental clinic. Springdale Dental in Brampton provides family dental care and oral health services for patients of all ages. Call us today at (905) 458-1212.
