If you have a severely decayed or infected tooth, you may think extraction is your only option. However, a root canal can often save the tooth and restore your oral health. Our dentist in Lebanon, IN, believes in preserving natural teeth whenever possible, and root canals are one of the most effective treatments for doing just that.
Here are seven ways a root canal can help save your teeth and improve your overall dental health.
1. Removes Infection from the Tooth
One of the primary benefits of a root canal is that it eliminates infection from deep inside the tooth. When bacteria enter the pulp chamber, they can cause pain, swelling, and even abscesses. A root canal removes the infected tissue, preventing the spread of bacteria and allowing the tooth to heal.
2. Preserves Your Natural Tooth
Unlike an extraction, which removes the entire tooth, a root canal allows you to keep your natural tooth structure. Preserving your tooth helps maintain your bite alignment, prevents shifting of surrounding teeth, and eliminates the need for costly tooth replacements such as dental implants or bridges.
3. Relieves Pain and Discomfort
Many people associate with pain, but the reality is that they relieve pain rather than cause it. A tooth infection can lead to severe toothaches and sensitivity, making it difficult to eat or even sleep. A root canal removes the source of the pain and restores comfort to your mouth.
4. Stops the Spread of Infection
An untreated tooth infection doesn’t just stay in one place—it can spread to surrounding teeth, gums, and even other parts of the body. In severe cases, dental infections can lead to serious health complications. A root canal stops the infection before it can do further damage, protecting your overall health.
5. Restores Full Function to Your Tooth
After the , your tooth is restored with a crown or filling, allowing it to function just like a healthy tooth. This means you can chew, bite, and speak normally without discomfort or restrictions. Unlike a missing tooth, which can create gaps in your bite, a treated tooth remains a strong and functional part of your smile.
6. Prevents the Need for More Extensive Dental Work
Ignoring a tooth infection can lead to more serious dental problems, such as bone loss, abscess formation, and the need for extractions. Once a tooth is removed, replacing it requires additional treatments, such as implants or bridges, which can be more expensive and time-consuming than a root canal. By treating the infection early, you avoid the need for more complex dental procedures.
7. Supports Long-Term Oral Health
A successful root canal treatment can last a lifetime with proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. By saving your natural tooth, you help maintain a healthy, stable bite and protect the integrity of your smile. A well-cared-for root canal-treated tooth can remain in place just as long as any other healthy tooth.
Preserve Your Smile with Root Canal Treatment
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or suspect an infection, don’t wait until the problem worsens. A root canal can be the best way to save your tooth and protect your overall health. Our dentist in Lebanon, IN, is dedicated to providing gentle, effective root canal treatment to help you maintain a healthy, confident smile. To schedule an appointment, please call Dwight B. Lee Family & Cosmetic Dentistry at (765) 482-2400 or fill out our online contact form.