In order to save a tooth that has damage to the internal pulp, a root canal procedure is required. Here, our Fort St. John dentists discuss a few of the reasons someone may need a root canal.
What is root canal therapy?
The space inside the hard layers of each tooth is called the root canal system. It is filled with a soft pulp made up of living connective tissues and cells. Root canal therapy is the process of removing infected, injured or dead pulp from the inside your tooth, filling it, and sealing it to prevent further damage or infection.
Why might I need root canal therapy?
A root canal is necessary when the pulp of your tooth becomes infected or damaged. This could happen for a variety of reasons, including the following:
- Decay – Tooth decay that has penetrated the enamel and dentin of the tooth, and affected the pulp.
- Damage – Cracks, chips, compromised dental restorations, or severe trauma in the tooth can cause tooth decay and eventually pulp infection.
Any of these dental problems may result in damage to the inner soft tissue of your tooth, and to save a tooth with pulp damage, the pulp must be removed via a root canal.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
While only your dentist can tell you for sure if you need a root canal, there are certain signs that indicate the procedure may be necessary.
These include tooth pain, sensitivity to heat or cold, tenderness while chewing, discolouration, and swelling or tenderness in the lymph nodes, nearby bone or gum tissues. Sometimes, however, there are no symptoms.
