If your dentist told you that you need root canal therapy, you may have instantly groaned with dread. However, it’s not quite the bad news it seems to be. While Hollywood has perpetuated the myth that it is painful, only 95% of people experience little to mild discomfort with the procedure. As a matter of fact, root canal therapy is meant to relieve you of your tooth pain, not cause more! But what if your toothache goes away? Read on to learn more about root canal therapy and why you may still need the procedure even if your tooth isn’t causing you discomfort anymore.
Why Do People Need Root Canal Therapy?
A root canal is needed when an infection occurs inside the dental pulp (the bundle of nerve ending at the center of your tooth). Since this area is very sensitive, it can begin to cause discomfort. Root canal therapy allows your dentist to:
- Get to the core of the tooth to remove the infection
- Thoroughly clean the area
- Seal the tooth and restore it with a crown
- Protect the tooth from further, more serious, and potentially irreversible damage
What if Your Toothache Went Away?
With the understanding of the root cause of the pain (pun intended), you are aware that the infection is the source of the discomfort. If the pain subsides, this is not an indication that the tooth is no longer infected. Although there may be temporary relief, the bacteria are still present.
A toothache that has suddenly gone numb could indicate that the bacteria have killed the nerve of the tooth. Even though you no longer feel pain, the infection is still present and stronger than ever. You may lose that tooth and the infection could spread to other parts of your mouth and body!
You should always play it safe and visit your dentist if your tooth suddenly stops hurting. They can take an X-ray to determine what the best course of treatment would be. Your oral health will soon be back on track!
Why You Shouldn’t Put Off Emergency Treatment
As stated above, if your toothache has suddenly disappeared, it could be a sign that the decay has penetrated deep enough to cause the tooth root to die. Even if this has happened, there may still be enough healthy tooth structure left to be saved with a root canal. Therefore, it is essential to visit your dentist for emergency care as soon as possible! If you delay treatment, you risk the chance of your infected tooth needing to be removed completely.
Toothaches are a sign that you need to visit a dentist. Be sure not to delay treatment so you can return to your happy, healthy smile as soon as possible!
About the Author
Dr. Deborah Bishop keeps the smiles of Huntsville whole and healthy! As an endodontic specialist, she is prepared to assist you with any issue concerning the inner tooth, such as root canal therapy. With advanced training and using the latest techniques and technologies, she can help keep your dental health in top condition! To schedule an appointment, contact her through her website or call (256) 882-5161.