Do You Need a Root Canal?

Find out if you might require this common endodontic procedure in order to preserve your smile.

You thought you were going to drift off to sleep but your tooth had other plans. Suddenly you are dealing with a toothache that has you tossing and turning in bed. Not only has the lack of sleep made you grouchy but also you are now worried about the state of your tooth. Our Lee’s Summit, MO, dentist, Dr. Jamie Thurman-Taylor, is here to explain what a root canal is and why it’s sometimes necessary.

What is a root canal?

In order to understand why root canal treatment is necessary, it’s important to first understand the structure of a tooth. Underneath the hard outer layers of the tooth (also known as the enamel and dentin layers) is a structure known as the dental pulp. While the pulp is instrumental for the development of a tooth, once the tooth has matured the pulp no longer serves a specific purpose. The pulp is made up of connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves.

Of course, if trauma, decay, or an infection is severe enough it can affect not just the hard, outer layers of the tooth but also the dental pulp. When this happens the pulp becomes infected or inflamed. The only course of action once this occurs is to remove the pulp and to disinfect the tooth to prevent the infection from spreading.

What causes an infection in the root canal?

There are several reasons why you might end up dealing with an infected or inflamed dental pulp. Common causes include:

• Severe dental decay
• A cracked or damaged tooth
• A displaced/partially dislodged tooth
• Getting repeat dental treatments on the same tooth (this can wear down and weaken a tooth)

What are the signs that I might need a root canal?

It’s important that you call your Lee’s Summit emergency dentists right away if you experience any of these symptoms:

• A toothache
• Tooth sensitivity
• Darkening of the tooth
• Tender, swollen gums around the tooth
• The development of a pimple or bump on the gums surrounding the tooth

TLC Family Dentistry in Lee’s Summit, MO, and serving Greenwood, Lake Winnebago, Pleasant Hill, Raymore, Belton, Lone Jack, and Harrisonville, MO, prides itself on offering quality dental care to patients of all ages. Dealing with a toothache? Need to schedule a dental visit? Then call our office today.