Don’t let the phrase “root canal” scare you! While a root canal has previously been characterized as a dreadful dental procedure, the truth is that a root canal treatment is a common procedure that restores the health of your infected tooth and prevents infection from spreading. Thanks to modern medicine, you will not experience pain or discomfort during treatment. If you have an infected tooth, a root canal may be the best option to stop the infection and prevent further damage to your teeth, gums, and jaw.
What is a Root Canal?
“Root canal” has become synonymous with a painful dental procedure, but the term actually just refers to a part of your tooth’s anatomy. There is more to your tooth than just the portion that is visible above your gum line. Your tooth’s root anchors the tooth into your gum so it’s securely in place. The root is not visible because it’s embedded into the gum tissue. Your tooth root is hollow with pulp tissue and nerves inside. The hollow canals are your root canals.
What is a Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment is a restorative dentistry treatment that is performed by a general dentist. During a root canal treatment, your root canal is cleaned and cleared of infection to restore the health of your tooth.
Why You May Need a Root Canal Treatment
If you have an infected tooth and the infection has spread to your root canal, then a root canal treatment is your best option to remove the infection and restore your tooth. If you skip a root canal treatment, the infection can worsen and spread further to infect your gum tissue and jawbone.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
A root canal treatment stops the spread of the infection, which prevents the infection from worsening. You can lose your tooth when tooth decay is too severe, and infection can also extend to your gums and jawbone.
ABOUT YOUR SHREWSBURY DENTISTS:
At Modern Dentistry, Todd A. Pizzi, DDS, and Luciana Messina, DDS, are dedicated to providing high-quality cosmetic, restorative, and preventive dentistry services to patients and families in Shrewsbury, Worcester, North and South Grafton, Westborough, Southborough, Northborough, Boylston, Hopkinton, Millbury, and all surrounding communities. To schedule your next appointment, contact our office by calling (508) 842-6356 today.
