WHAT IS ROOT CANAL THERAPY?
Root canal therapy removes infection from the inside of a tooth, known as the ‘root canal.’
A tooth that is severely decayed may become infected. If the infection spreads to the root, it may form a very painful abscess and continue to extend into the tooth pulp. In this case, root canal therapy, or endodontic treatment, is necessary to prevent the spread of infection and relieve this pain which can be excruciating. At Wichita Family Dental, our dentists perform root canal therapy without the need for a referral to an endodontist in most cases.
WHY DO I NEED ROOT CANAL THERAPY?
If you have a very big cavity or a cracked tooth, bacteria may enter and infect your tooth pulp. This can also occur if you have a filling that becomes loose or falls out. Infection will destroy your tooth pulp and may spread into your bone. This will cause your tooth to become loose, eventually requiring extraction.
Infected pulp is often painful as it is where your nerve tissue is located. Your tooth may be sensitive to hot or cold food and drinks. You may also experience pain when chewing, or a throbbing pain that keeps you awake at night and makes it difficult to concentrate. Root canal therapy at Wichita Family Dental can relieve this pain. It will also prevent the infection from spreading. In addition, root canal therapy will help you to preserve your natural tooth. If left untreated, a tooth with severe tooth decay will eventually become so loose that it needs to be removed. That missing space will require dental implants, dental crowns, or dental bridges, which can be expensive.
