How Do Root Canals Save Your Smile?
If you’re experiencing dental pain, it’s important that you contact one of our 44 West offices to schedule an appointment. Our dentists in Grand Rapids and Grandville, MI, will be able to determine if you need a root canal to save a badly decayed tooth. Likewise, they’ll be able to outline a treatment plan to restore your oral health as soon as possible.
In the meantime, here’s what you need to know about root canal therapy and how it’s able to save teeth from needing extraction.
Eliminate Infection
One of the primary benefits of a root canal is that it eliminates infection from deep inside the tooth. When bacteria enter the pulp chamber, they can cause pain, swelling, and even abscesses. A root canal removes the infected tissue, preventing the spread of bacteria and allowing the tooth to heal.
Save Natural Tooth Structure
Unlike an extraction, which removes the entire tooth, a root canal allows you to keep your natural tooth structure. Preserving your tooth helps maintain your bite alignment, prevents shifting of surrounding teeth, and eliminates the need for costly tooth replacements such as dental implants or bridges.
Relieve Toothache
Many people associate with pain, but the reality is that they relieve pain rather than cause it. A tooth infection can lead to severe toothaches and sensitivity, making it difficult to eat or even sleep. A root canal removes the source of the pain and restores comfort to your mouth.
Prevent Infection from Spreading
An untreated tooth infection doesn’t just stay in one place—it can spread to surrounding teeth, gums, and even other parts of the body. In severe cases, dental infections can lead to serious health complications. A root canal stops the infection before it can do further damage, protecting your overall health.
Improve Dental Function
After the , your tooth is restored with a crown or filling, allowing it to function just like a healthy tooth. This means you can chew, bite, and speak normally without discomfort or restrictions. Unlike a missing tooth, which can create gaps in your bite, a treated tooth remains a strong and functional part of your smile.
Avoid More Restorative Procedures
Ignoring a tooth infection can lead to more serious dental problems, such as bone loss, abscess formation, and the need for extractions. Once a tooth is removed, replacing it requires additional treatments, such as implants or bridges, which can be more expensive and time-consuming than a root canal. By treating the infection early, you avoid the need for more complex dental procedures.
Maintain Good Dental Health
A successful root canal treatment can last a lifetime with proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. By saving your natural tooth, you help maintain a healthy, stable bite and protect the integrity of your smile. A well-cared-for root canal-treated tooth can remain in place just as long as any other healthy tooth.
Schedule a Root Canal Consultation
Concerned you may need an emergency root canal? Our dentists in Grand Rapids and Grandville, MI, are accepting new patients and would be more than happy to provide restorative care. To schedule an appointment, please call 44 West Dental Professionals or fill out our online contact form.