If you have a tooth that's badly decayed, a root canal may be the treatment of choice to repair it. Severe tooth infections are frequently 
resolved with root canal therapy, helping to prevent the need for extraction and keep your natural smile healthy. Learn about the procedure from your Evans and Augusta family dentist at Summerville Dentistry.
How Do Root Canals Work?
A root canal treats an infection that has entered the pulp of the tooth, which is the living tissue inside the layers of enamel and dentin.
First, your dentist creates a small hole in the tooth to access the inside. Next, the damaged tissue is removed and the inside of your tooth is cleaned and sanitized. Medication may also be applied inside the tooth to prevent bacteria from returning.
After the source of the problem is removed, the hole is filled and sealed. Usually, the tooth is covered with a crown for extra reinforcement and protection.
After Your Root Canal
Teeth treated with root canal therapy often remain healthy for a lifetime. The treatment has over a 95% success rate, and it's helped millions of people save their natural teeth. To help your results last, continue to care for your teeth with regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings.
Your tooth, gums, or jaw may be tender and sensitive for a few days after treatment. Your dentist will prescribe appropriate pain medications to keep you comfortable during this time, and you should feel significant relief after a few days of healing.
What Happens If I Don't Get A Root Canal?
A simple infection can become life-threatening if it's not treated in a timely fashion. Your dentist will make your root canal a comfortable experience, helping you get out of pain faster and restore your smile to optimal health.
Untreated dental infections can lead to a variety of complications, including:
- Abcess (pus-filled pocket of infected tissue)
- Swelling
- Bone loss
- Excessive pain
- Infection spreading throughout the body
If an infected tooth is left alone too long, it may need to be extracted. Tooth extraction and replacement are much more involved procedures that come with a higher cost. Saving your tooth with a root canal is the ideal solution whenever possible, since it minimizes the amount of dental work needed while restoring your natural tooth to good health.
Evans and Augusta Family Dentist
If you have a severely decayed tooth, a root canal can help save your tooth and resolve your pain for good. Visit your Evans and Augusta family dentist at Summerville Dentistry to find out how to keep your smile healthy for life. Request your appointment now or call 706-250-2998 today.