Many people hear the phrase “root canal” and immediately feel a shiver down their spine. While they may not be your favorite activity, root canals in Carrollton can actually save your tooth from being extracted. Plus, it gets you out of pain, causing not nearly as much discomfort as their known for. Keep reading to learn about when you need a root canal and why they may be a better option for you than tooth extraction.
When Can My Tooth Be Saved?
Before root canals, teeth that were damaged or infected couldn’t be saved. Your dental pulp is the innermost layer of your tooth, containing sensitive nerves that can become damaged if your tooth is cracked or severely decayed. This can lead to infection and the important dental pulp tissue in your tooth eventually dying. That’s why root canals will typically get patients out of pain instead of causing discomfort.
Now, with a root canal, your dentist can remove the diseased or infected pulp from your tooth, cleaning it to make sure there’s no bacteria left behind to cause problems. Then, they will seal it with a material called “gutta percha,” which replaces the damaged pulp. Your tooth will then be restored with a crown or filling depending on the size of the decay or infection.
When Does My Tooth Need Extraction?
Unfortunately, not all teeth can be saved. This can happen if your tooth is too severely decayed or damaged. At this point, your tooth is too weak for repair, making extraction your only option. This will typically be the solution for a severe fracture or break in a tooth due to injury as well.
Why Are Root Canals Better Than Tooth Extractions?
After examining your tooth, your dentist in Carrollton will provide the best treatment for you. However, they favor root canals because they maintain your natural tooth structure. Keeping your natural teeth will not only save you money from avoiding a more costly replacement, but it can also promote healthier tissue in your mouth and around your surrounding teeth.
Additionally, the discomfort you may feel during or after a root canal is short-lived compared to the pain that comes with tooth extraction. Your dentist will make sure you’re numb, and they will also offer sedation dentistry to keep you calm, comfortable, and relaxed.
Now that you know more about root canals and why they’re necessary, visit a dentist that favors saving your teeth over extracting them to keep your smile healthy and happy.
Meet the Dentist
A graduate of the NYU College of Dentistry, Dr. Chandy is a dentist who takes pride in her ability to save teeth rather than extract them. She understands that maintaining your natural dental structure is not only good for your health, but your pocketbook, too. She currently practices at Aegis Dental, and she can be contacted through her website or by phone at (972) 492-6700 for any questions you may have.