If you have a toothache, one of your first thoughts might be, “Do I need a root canal?” However, answering that question depends on more than any one factor and often requires the help of your dentist. Root canals, which become necessary when the tooth’s nerve or pulp becomes inflamed or infected, can help save your tooth’s natural structure and eliminate the need for a tooth extraction. Find out more about root canals and what they can do for your teeth with Dr. Garry Lewis at his practice in Moundsville, WV.
Do I need a root canal?
A tooth is hollow, housing a chamber within its hard outer enamel. This inner chamber houses the tooth’s pulp and nerves, which allow the tooth to feel pain. A root canal most commonly becomes necessary when teeth decay becomes so severe that it eats through the outer layers of the tooth and reaches the pulp chamber within, infecting the soft tissues and nerves to cause a toothache. A root canal also becomes necessary in cases of a broken or damaged tooth which, depending on the severity, could result in extraction if left untreated.
What can I expect during a root canal?
Your dentist will first numb the work area, then begin removing the infected tissue from within the tooth via a small access hole in its crown. After removing the tissue, your dentist scrubs the inside of the tooth to remove the last of the decay. If necessary, your dentist may recommend a dental crown to protect the tooth from future damage.
Root Canal Therapy in Moundsville, WV
The procedure for a root canal is very similar to that of a standard dental filling. However, a root canal goes one step further than just removing decayed portions of the tooth and removes the decayed inner tissues of the tooth as well. If you think you could benefit from a root canal, a consultation with your dentist can help you determine the best course of action for your tooth. If you have a toothache, broken tooth, cracked tooth, or a dental abscess which may resemble a pimple on the gums, you should seek immediate dental care.
For more information on root canal therapy, please contact Dr. Garry Lewis in Moundsville, WV. Call (304) 845-5651 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Lewis today!