The highest calling for those in the dental community is to save teeth whenever possible. There are many amazing ways dentists can spare badly damaged teeth from extraction. Root canal therapy helps people retain healthy tooth structure. Unfortunately, sometimes tooth loss is unavoidable.
The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Damage to a tooth that affects its inner chamber, or pulp, sometimes indicates that root canal therapy is necessary. People often experience a toothache when a tooth is cracked or decay has reached the pulp, which contains many nerves that warn the brain of an existing threat.
If you are experiencing a toothache, it is important to seek the immediate attention of a dental professional. Bacteria can create abscesses in the gums, and this can put other teeth at risk of infection.
Root canal therapy is a procedure where the dentist accesses the pulp and eliminates decay. Teeth become brittle after the removal of the pulp, so the dentist places a beautiful porcelain crown over the damaged tooth.
Root canal therapy is no more painful than receiving a filling; however, it takes more time. Root canals allow the patient to keep the full function of a natural tooth and help maintain healthy bone volume in the jaw.
Effects of Tooth Loss on Oral health
The loss of a single tooth can cause adjacent teeth to quickly shift out of their proper positions. The jaw bone also undergoes a process called resorption when teeth are missing. Without the stimulation of a tooth root, the body begins to take the calcium in the jaw bone and places it elsewhere. The deterioration of the jaw bone can also affect the physical appearance of the facial structure. Mouths can appear more sunken, adding years to smiles.
Tooth Extractions and Tooth Restorations
Sometimes if decay or damage has compromised the root, the only alternative is for a dentist to extract the tooth. Fortunately, dentists have wonderful restorations for those missing teeth. Dentures, dental implants, and bridges can restore the aesthetics of smiles, the function of chewing and the health of jaw bones.
Dr. Rizkella in Plymouth for Healthy Smiles
Give the Rizkalla Dental Associates a call if you are facing the dilemma of a tooth that is in jeopardy due to infection or damage. Dr. Rizkalla will help you retain a healthy smile.