We understand that the thought of getting a root canal might make some people uneasy or scare, simply because they’re not entirely familiar with it. Additionally, misconceptions about root canals abound, such as they’re painful. However, these misconceptions are really just misconceptions.
Likewise, the cost, inconvenience, and pain of not having a root canal could be easily avoided. Because remember, the longer you wait to undergo root canal therapy with your dentist at ParkLin Dental, PC in Katonah, NY, Dr. Enyoung Park, or Dr. Terry Lin, the higher your risk of not being able to save your tooth, leading to extraction.
Root Canal Basics
Essentially, the primary purpose of root canal therapy is to save a tooth by getting rid of the infected or decayed pulp inside the affected tooth. After removal, the tooth’s interior will be cleaned thoroughly and disinfected and filled with gutta-percha, a material that’s similar to rubber, to protect the inside of the tooth. The last step is to place a dental crown on top of the tooth, further safeguarding it from future damage.
Reasons You Might Need Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy may be needed when your tooth pulp, which is the soft tissue inside your root canal, becomes infected or inflamed. With this in mind, the most common reasons why people require root canal therapy typically include the following:
- Deep decay in the affected and/or neighboring teeth
- A malfunctioning dental crown
- Repeated dental treatments on the affected tooth
- A sizeable chip or crack in the tooth
Apart from these, trauma to the tooth might result in damage to the tooth pulp even if your tooth doesn’t have any noticeable cracks or chips. If you fail to treat this, it will eventually lead to an infection or inflammation that, in turn, will cause severe and constant pain and an abscess to develop.
In a nutshell, there’s a multitude of reasons why people opt to undergo root canal therapy and a host of practical reasons why trying to save your real teeth is the best choice. A root canal will help you preserve your smile, limit your need for more extensive dental procedures later on, and maintain your oral functions.
Think You Might Need a Root Canal? Talk to Us
Dial (914) 232-8182 to get in touch with ParkLin Dental, PC in Katonah, NY, and book a consultation with your dentist Dr. Enyoung Park or Dr. Terry Lin, today.