In the past, a tooth with nerve damage would probably need to be removed. These days, however, we can perform a root canal procedure to save the tooth.
A root canal is a safe and effective dental procedure during which your dentist removes damaged pulp from the interior of the tooth, preventing the need for a tooth extraction.
Root canal treatment involves one to three visits to your dental office, depending on the severity of the damage.
During treatment, your dentist will remove the affected tissue, and the interior of the tooth will be cleaned and sealed. The tooth will then be filled with a dental composite.
If your tooth had extensive decay, your dentist may place a crown to strengthen and protect the tooth from breakage.
After a tooth has emerged through the gums, the nerve's only function is to provide the sensation of hot or cold temperatures, so the absence of the nerve will not affect the function of the tooth, and its better to remove it.
When a tooth is cracked or has a deep cavity, bacteria can enter the pulp tissue and can cause an infection inside the tooth. If left untreated, eventually an abscess may form.
If the infected tissue is not removed, pain and swelling can result, and it can eventually cause damage to your jawbones, and your overall oral health. In these cases, the solution is often to remove the infected tooth nerve with a root canal.
Teeth that require root canal therapy don't always hurt. That said, signs you may need a root canal include:
Only your dentist can determine if a root canal will be an appropriate treatment. If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your dentist.
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