People usually recognize that they need treatment from a qualified dentist if they have a horrible toothache, but it’s understandable that you might be skeptical if your oral health professional says you need a root canal when your tooth does not hurt. In some cases, a seemingly comfortable tooth can need a root canal to prevent an impending infection or to eliminate one that is especially advanced. Here’s a brief guide to how root canals work and why they may be necessary even if no pain is present.
Why Are Root Canals Necessary?
Root canals can be necessary if the tooth is damaged in such a way that leaves the soft pulp tissue inside it exposed to air and the oral environment or if it has become infected by destructive bacteria. This painless treatment can prevent tooth loss, bring an immediate end to an excruciating toothache, and save the patient large amounts of money by making costly restorative devices like implants and bridges unnecessary.
Why Do I Need a Root Canal if My Tooth Does Not Hurt?
If your dentist says you need a root canal when your tooth does not hurt, it is probably for one of two reasons, those being:
- Impending infection: In some cases, the enamel of a tooth is so severely damaged or decayed that it cannot sustain its structure, which means it will eventually be breached. Treating such a tooth with a root canal can prevent a painful infection and protect it from further damage.
- Dead nerve ending: In other cases, a miserable toothache will seem to suddenly end because the infectious bacteria have killed the nerve ending inside the pulp. This will prevent the tooth from sending pain signals to the brain while the infection continues destroying it.
How Do Root Canals Work?
Root canals always begin with the patient receiving an appropriate anesthetic to ensure their comfort. When the patient is ready, their dentist will remove the compromised material from the tooth as well as the pulp from its inner chamber. Then, they will sanitize the treatment area and fill and seal the tooth. The patient will probably also be fitted with a dental crown to restore the tooth’s function and structure. The recovery process for a root canal involves only mild and temporary discomfort that is far preferable to the miserable agony of an ongoing toothache, and the treatment can allow a compromised tooth to last for many years afterward.
Don’t let an oral infection wreck your gorgeous smile. Receiving a necessary root canal can save your tooth and help you avoid potentially dangerous secondary infections.
About the Author
Dr. Tommy Murph earned his dental degree at the Medical University of South Carolina and has completed more than 600 hours of continuing education coursework. He is a proud member of the American Dental Association and the South Carolina Dental Association. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry such as root canal treatment. If you are concerned about tooth decay, contact the office online or dial (843) 488-4357.