Due to a lot of misinformation, most people resist the idea of having a root canal. If left untreated, however, root canal infections will most likely lead to tooth loss and the need for more extensive restorative treatments at a later date, such as implant dentistry.
A root canal is actually an anatomical structure, and you have at least one in each of your teeth. The infection of a root canal is one of the leading causes of tooth loss among American adults, trailing only gum disease. Whenever the Novato Dentist identifies root canal infections, he always discusses their connection to tooth loss with our patients. This helps patients understand the urgency behind the need for treatment.
Ultimately, there is no such thing as “harmless” tooth pain. Tooth pain is always an indication that something is wrong, and it often points to a root canal infection. If you are experiencing tooth pain, we strongly urge you to schedule an appointment with our dentist.
How Root Canal Infections Can Lead to Tooth Loss
Each of your teeth has at least one and as many as four root canals. A root canal is basically a chamber in which dental pulp, a nutrient-rich substance comprising blood vessels and nerves, is stored.
Dental pulp is essential to the health of a tooth. As long as the chamber is sealed, and the dental pulp is protected, the tooth is basically healthy. However, if the root canal is breached, the dental pulp can easily become inflamed or infected. This can cause overwhelming pain and will eventually result in the death of the tooth. The only way to preserve the tooth is to remove the diseased pulp and disinfect and seal off the root canal.
Time is of the essence when it comes to performing root canal therapy. The pulp must be removed and replaced by a filler substance. The tooth must then be covered by a natural-looking dental crown. This will protect what’s left of the natural tooth from further harm and restore the patient’s bite.
However, if the Novato Dentist does not perform root canal therapy in a timely manner, it will eventually be impossible to salvage the tooth. At that point, extraction of the tooth will be the only viable option.
Please Call for an Appointment
Are you experiencing severe tooth pain and suspect you may need a root canal? Please call our office as soon as possible so we can provide relief and restore your tooth to health.