Skip to main content

When Is a Root Canal the Best Option?

Root canals can seem frightening. But this common procedure is a necessary treatment that can eliminate the pain caused by an infection and save your tooth from extraction

Better yet, our skilled team at Hometown Family Dental Centers provides root canal treatments without causing pain. A consultation with our providers will ease your concerns, but you may also feel less anxious about it if you understand what a root canal treatment is and how it's carried out. 

Why do dentists perform root canals?

A root canal is the best way to ease discomfort, eliminate infection, and preserve a natural tooth, which is always our top priority. The term “root canal” refers to the natural cavity inside a tooth and its roots that contains the pulp chamber — holding the sensitive nerves of the tooth as well as blood vessels. 

The pulp lies beneath the tooth’s dentin, a calcified material beneath your enamel. Damage, inflammation, or infection to the pulp can be painful. If left untreated, the surrounding tissue can also become infected. This causes more pain, which can cause tooth abscesses, bone loss around the root tip, and swelling, which can spread to your face and neck.

Instead of extracting an infected tooth, we treat the discomfort and repair the infected tooth with a root canal whenever possible. We can save the infected tooth by removing the pulp and nerves inside the tooth and root and then cleaning and sealing the inside. 

When is a root canal necessary? 

There are a variety of reasons the pulp inside a tooth can become damaged and painful, including:

Acute and spontaneous tooth pain that’s difficult to pinpoint may be due to infected tooth pulp. You may notice discoloration or darkening of the tooth or experience dull pain and pressure. 

Sometimes the resulting pain extends to the ear, temple, or jaw area. Without root canal treatment, you might feel persistent pain and sensitivity to hot or cold drinks and food. 

Regular checkups and dental cleanings can typically prevent the need for a root canal. 

Benefits of a root canal

Saving a natural tooth with this common procedure means you can avoid tooth loss. Root canals come with other benefits, too, such as:

Root canals are a common treatment that can last a lifetime, and the treated tooth functions like any other tooth after we repair it.

Root canals aren’t scary

For many, the idea of a root canal treatment creates worry and dread, but there's no need to be afraid if your dentist recommends one. A root canal procedure may sound scary, but with today's technology, it's usually not much different from having a cavity repaired with a dental filling

Don’t suffer with a painful, infected tooth. Please call the closest Hometown Family Dental Centers office location — Fayetteville, Vass, or Raeford, North Carolina — or request an online appointment to find out if a root canal is your best option.

You Might Also Enjoy...

4 Warning Signs You Need a Root Canal

Have you ever experienced a toothache that made you wonder if it's more than just an ordinary pain? If there’s an infection inside your tooth, you may need a root canal. Learn the warning signs here.
6 Questions to Ask Before Getting Dentures

6 Questions to Ask Before Getting Dentures

Are you self-conscious about missing teeth? Deciding to get dentures is a big step, and we know how important it is to have all of the facts before making a decision. Trust us to provide the information you need to make your best choice. 
Are Receding Gums Always a Sign of Gum Disease?

Are Receding Gums Always a Sign of Gum Disease?

Neglecting your oral hygiene can put you at risk for a serious problem: gum disease. One red flag is receding gums, and if gum disease advances, it can lead to tooth loss. Don't let gum disease jeopardize your smile.
3 Reasons to Consider Veneers Over Teeth Whitening

3 Reasons to Consider Veneers Over Teeth Whitening

Discover the amazing benefits of dental veneers. Not only can they help you say goodbye to a dull smile and deep stains, but veneers can also help you correct other tooth imperfections, permanently. Learn more about why they’re a great option here.
When Is an Extraction Absolutely Necessary?

When Is an Extraction Absolutely Necessary?

Do you experience constant tooth pain? While our dentists strive to save your tooth whenever possible, a tooth extraction could be necessary in some cases. Explore when it's time to consider this option and alleviate your discomfort.