We often ignore minor discomfort or pain in the tooth until it becomes severe and hinders our daily work. Even parents often ignore the initial signs of tooth decay or weakening in the teeth. If ignored, these signs often become big issues like severe tooth decay, leading to extraction. However, when these issues are caught early, a root canal is often the best solution. Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that removes decayed tooth pulp and fills it to restore normal tooth function.
When we hear the words ‘dental procedure’ and ‘root canal’, we often feel this apprehension (outright fear for some!) regarding the pain involved in the procedure. However, technological advances in modern dentistry have made these procedures a much more comfortable experience here in the ACT. In this post, we will explore what a root canal is, when it might be necessary, and how a trusted family dentistry can help you get a root canal in Canberra.
What Exactly Is a Root Canal?
Under the hard outer layers of enamel and dentin, our tooth has a layer of soft tissues called the pulp that contains the nerves and blood vessels. This pulp extends from the crown of the tooth to the roots through a hollow space called the root canal. When your tooth gets infected or damaged, it affects the root, leads to an abscess, and causes pain and discomfort. Root canal treatment is the process in which root canal specialists clean the root canals, remove the damaged tooth, and fill it to save a badly damaged tooth.
Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
Most children and even adults often miss the beginning of tooth decay, as there are no visible signs. However, once the problem becomes a bit serious, the teeth start showing signs that they need repair. So, how do you know when to go for a root canal treatment? Here are the common signs that tell you it’s time to visit the dentist and get a checkup:
- When you experience a severe toothache and it persists for quite some time, coming and going, it’s a sign your tooth needs help. The pain might feel like a deep, throbbing ache in the jaw, especially when you put pressure, bite, or chew anything.
- If you consume something hot or cold, it’s normal for the tooth to feel sensitive for a few initial seconds. But when this sensitivity lasts for a long time afterwards, it means your tooth’s pulp is damaged and needs restoration.
- When your tooth’s pulp gets damaged, it means your root is affected. This damage will make your gums inflamed, swollen, and sensitive. If you feel pain or swelling in the gums, it’s probably time to visit the family dentistry clinic.
- An inflamed or decayed tooth affects the root of the tooth and damages the pulp. This damage can form an abscess or a bump on the root of the tooth. If this abscess releases pus, it can also cause a bad taste or odour in the mouth, a sure sign that you need to visit the dentist.
- A damaged tooth and pulp may take on a dark colour due to nerve damage. When you notice your or your child’s teeth becoming dark or discoloured, visiting a local dental clinic is essential.
If you or your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t ignore or take them lightly. It’s a sign that your teeth need professional expertise and medical help. If you are based in Canberra, book your next appointment with expert dentists at Dickson and get your teeth checked immediately.
The Benefits of Choosing a Root Canal Over Extraction
Many people mix up a root canal treatment with a tooth extraction, but they’re both quite different. While in a tooth extraction, the problematic tooth is removed completely, in a root canal, the dentist will try to save the natural tooth. So, why should you go for a root canal treatment instead of a tooth extraction? Here are the benefits of choosing a root canal:
➢ Saving the Natural Tooth:
This is the main benefit of going for a root canal; you get to keep your natural tooth, which is always a better option than an artificial one.
➢ Prevent Further Problems:
Tooth extraction can sometimes lead to further problems, like jawbone deterioration or other teeth shifting from their places. This can affect your ability to chew properly. Root canal does not have such problems.
➢ A Wise Investment with Long-Term Value:
While the initial cost of RC Treatment in Canberra might be higher than a tooth extraction, it can prove to be a more cost-effective solution in the long run. An extracted tooth might need replacement after some time, leading to costlier treatments like dental implants or dental bridges. For families in Canberra and other suburbs, a root canal can be a more economical choice and a wise investment in the long term!
Family Dentistry in Canberra: Expert Root Canal Care for All Ages
A toothache can be alarming, but a root canal treatment is a proven and effective way to relieve pain and save your natural tooth. When you choose to save your tooth instead of removing it, you are investing in the long-term health of your entire smile. At the Dentist at Dickson, we are proud to offer gentle and expert root canal treatment.
Our experienced team of root canal specialists and our commitment to compassionate family dentistry ensure that you and your loved ones receive the highest standard of care and the best RC treatment in Canberra. Don’t let dental pain dictate your day—contact us today to book a consultation and explore a pain-free future.