Based on what you’ve heard or read, you may see a root canal as a glorified toothache fix. Fair enough – plenty of people just get the procedure to ease their aching mouths. With that said, you may need to get a root canal even if your tooth doesn’t hurt. This treatment has effects besides pain relief that enhance oral health, ensuring your smile stays safe. As for the details, here’s a summary of the matter from your local Glastonbury dentist.
Root Canals Aren’t Just for Pain
The truth is that a root canal isn’t simply a toothache treatment. Given how it works, it can benefit you even when you aren’t in pain.
A root canal’s main role is to remove your tooth’s infected pulp. While said pulp can irritate and hurt your mouth, it doesn’t always cause aches. An infection can sometimes “kill” its nerves, so your tooth doesn’t send pain signals to your brain. On the other hand, pus from the infected area can flow out, ease nearby pressure, and prevent a toothache. These scenarios show that “lack of pain” doesn’t mean your mouth is healthy; your pulp could still be in bad shape and need removal.
A Root Canal Can Treat Other Symptoms
Even if your tooth doesn’t hurt, a root canal could still treat your other unpleasant symptoms. Common examples of these include:
- Halitosis (i.e., Bad Breath)
- Swollen Lymph Nodes
- A Persistent Fever
- Sensitive Teeth
- Swollen Gums
- Facial Swelling
If you show such signs, you should see your dentist for help. They deserve a diagnosis regardless of your feelings toward root canals.
Stop Your Infection’s Spread
An infected tooth should get a root canal regardless of its pain levels. If it isn’t treated in time, your oral health will greatly worsen.
A tooth infection doesn’t just go away when left alone. As time passes, it can slowly erode gum and bone tissue until teeth start falling out. Its bacteria can also spread from your mouth to other body parts, putting you at risk of sepsis – a truly life-threatening condition.
Whether you get a root canal mustn’t depend on your pain. Instead, consult your dental provider to see if treatment would protect your smile.
About the Practice
Glastonbury Dental is based in Glastonbury, CT. Led by its five dedicated and skilled dentists, our practice cherishes the chance to help local patients smile. We thus offer preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dental work, all tailored to your smile’s unique needs. Our office can also provide emergency oral services like root canal therapy. For more details or to book a visit, please get in touch with us on our website or by phone at (860)-0633-3671.