Tooth pain can start as minimal but quickly escalate into unbearable pain. You will often experience a fear of extracting the tooth, particularly when the pain is either severe or sustained.
For many people, even the thought of an extraction is stressful, not solely because of the pain they will experience, but because they will lose part of their smile and function forever.
This is where modern dentistry provides optimism. When tooth decay or another infection reaches deep inside the tooth, root canal therapy in Jacksonville will take control of the damage done and keep your tooth functional.
Understanding how this type of treatment works is crucial to save a tooth that is still alive.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy, which is also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure used to treat the infection or damage located inside a tooth.
Deep within each tooth is soft tissue known as pulp that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. If the pulp becomes infected due to decay, cracks, or trauma, it must be removed to save the tooth.
During the procedure, the dentist will carefully remove the infected pulp, then clean and disinfect the entire length of the canals, and lastly fill and seal the space inside the tooth. Oftentimes, the dentist will place a crown to provide protection and strength.
What Are the Benefits of Root Canal?
The benefits of root canal therapy go far beyond pain relief. It allows you to maintain your natural tooth structure, which is always the best option when possible. Other key benefits include:
- Stops infection from spreading to nearby teeth
- Maintains natural chewing and biting force
- Prevents jawbone loss that can happen after extractions
- Saves you from needing more costly dental procedures
Root canals have a high success rate, and teeth treated with them often last a lifetime with proper care.
Can It Save My Natural Tooth?
Yes. One of the main goals of root canal therapy is to save natural tooth structure. When a tooth is extracted, it leaves a gap that can cause the other teeth to shift; that, in turn, can affect your bite and make chewing harder.
Root canals preserve your smile and prevent unnecessary gaps. As long as the tooth has enough healthy structure, this treatment is often the best way to restore function while keeping your original tooth.
How Is Endodontic Treatment Different From Other Procedures?
You might be wondering how endodontic treatment compares to fillings or extractions. Fillings are used for small areas of decay in the outer layers of the tooth.
When the damage reaches the pulp, a root canal is the only way to stop the infection without removing the tooth.
Unlike extraction, which removes the entire tooth, endodontic treatment allows you to keep your tooth in place.
It supports long-term dental health and is usually more cost-effective over time, especially when you consider the cost of implants or bridges used to replace missing teeth.
Should I See a Dentist Near Me?
When you’re in pain or suspect an infection, visiting a dentist near you is crucial. Immediate treatment not only relieves discomfort but also prevents the infection from spreading.
A local dentist can examine your tooth, take X-rays, and decide whether a root canal is the best option. Early detection and treatment often mean easier procedures and better outcomes.
Ignoring the Pain Could Cost You
Delaying treatment for an infected tooth can have serious consequences. What starts as pain can turn into bone loss, tooth loss, and more extensive dental work down the road. Acting early can stop this chain reaction.
Choosing treatment now protects your smile, your health, and your confidence. Let fear take a backseat; what matters most is preserving what you still have.
Preserve Your Tooth. Protect Your Smile.
If you’re worried about tooth pain or infection, it’s time to take action. Contact the team at Phelan & Bell Family Dentistry and find out how root canal therapy can help you keep your natural tooth and live pain-free.
