A root canal becomes necessary when infection or inflammation develops in the tooth’s pulp tissue. Pulp tissue contains blood vessels, connective tissue, and nerve cells, which can cause intense pain. The pain may go away temporarily, but the infection won’t. Without treatment, it can lead to a dental abscess and systemic issues.

Root Canal Treatment Is Your Friend

We’ve all heard the joke: “I’d rather have a root canal…” This line compares the procedure to something truly undesirable. While funny, delaying endodontic treatment is no joke. Many people wrongly believe that a root canal causes complications and pain. In reality, infection or inflammation in the tooth’s pulp causes the excruciating pain. Remember, the root canal eliminates that pain and isn’t the source of it.

Need another reason not to delay treatment? Saving a natural tooth with a root canal prevents common problems from tooth loss. These problems include tooth migration, shifting, chewing difficulties, and the need for costly bridgework or implants. Additionally, losing a tooth can lead to bone structure loss in the area.

Causes of Root Canal Problems

Root canal problems arise from infection and inflammation of the tooth’s pulp tissue. Deep tooth decay often causes infection. Untreated cavities let bacteria reach the tooth’s center, where they can infect the pulp. Chipped or cracked teeth also allow bacteria to contact the pulp. Any opening in the enamel can give bacteria access to the pulp.

Trauma, like a sports injury or automobile accident, can damage the pulp tissue. In these cases, seek immediate treatment to save the tooth and prevent future issues.

Extensive dental work may also damage the pulp tissue, requiring a root canal. Multiple fillings or restorations increase the risk of this damage. Occasionally, procedures like crown preparation or orthodontics lead to root canal problems.

What to Expect During Root Canal Therapy

If an exam shows you need root canal therapy, don’t worry—it’s routine and highly effective treatment. The procedure usually starts like a filling, with your dentist numbing the tooth and surrounding area. For many patients, this step brings the most discomfort, and the hardest part is over. Next, your dentist creates a small opening in the tooth to access the pulp chamber and canals. Using tiny instruments, they remove infected tissue from inside the narrow passageways.

Then, your dentist cleans, disinfects, and prepares the canals to receive a biocompatible filling. Finally, they seal the opening with adhesive cement to block future infection and protect your tooth. After treatment, your tooth may feel slightly sensitive or tender for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen usually ease discomfort effectively. If needed, your dentist may prescribe medication for stronger pain relief during healing.

During this time, avoid biting hard on the treated tooth to minimize stress. Thankfully, these symptoms should fade quickly and only last a few days. To fully restore strength and function, your dentist may recommend placing a crown or similar restoration. Crowns may be gold or tooth-colored, depending on your needs and preference. In either case, you’ve invested in preserving your long-term dental health.

Signs and Symptoms of Root Canal Problems

How do you know when you need a root canal? Sometimes, the signs become painfully obvious. If you feel constant pain, pressure, swelling, or gum sensitivity, you should seek immediate evaluation and treatment. Sharp pain when biting down often signals pulp tissue damage that requires professional care. Lingering pain after hot or cold foods may also suggest deeper dental issues. If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a dental examination as soon as possible.