Do I Need a Root Canal?
Dentists perform over 15 million root canal procedures every year according to the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), making it one of the most common treatments in dentistry. Avoiding a root canal and allowing symptoms to worsen can lead to more complicated dental problems that will likely be more difficult and expensive to rectify. The best course of action is to visit your dentist Dr. Kyle Garlitz in Columbia, and Lexington, SC for an urgent tooth exam.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a method of rehabilitating a tooth when there is decay detected at the inner layers. It is an endodontic treatment that helps patients avoid having to lose an otherwise healthy tooth. Once you're an adult, your tooth doesn't need nerves and pulp in order to maintain its stability, so all diseased tissue can be removed. According to the AAE, many teeth that have been treated with root canal therapy survive, staying healthy and firmly rooted, for life.
Reasons for a Root Canal
It is not normal or healthy to feel throbbing pains in a tooth or intense sensitivity when your tooth comes in contact with hot or cold substances. It's also not normal to avoid chewing your food on one side of your mouth. If you're experiencing these issues, there is a good chance that it's because of a tooth infection. A root canal by a dentist in Columbia, SC or Lexington, SC will halt the progression of the infection, protect the tooth, and give it time to recover.
The Root Canal: What to Expect
Expect your root canal to take about an hour (the time varies depending on the severity of the case). The dentist will carefully remove the decay, disinfect the surfaces, then fill it with a substance called gutta percha. A week or so after the appointment, your tooth should be getting back to normal—no more pain, aching, or discomfort when you eat. After another couple weeks you'll come back to the office for a permanent crown and a checkup.
See Your Dentist
Don't be afraid to have an infected tooth treated with root canal therapy—the sooner you get help from your dentist Dr. Kyle Garlitz in Columbia and Lexington, SC, the sooner your dental health can be restored. Call (803) 399-8236 or (803) 736-8606 today to schedule an exam at Garlitz Cosmetic and Family Dentistry.