Why Tooth Pain Should Never Be Ignored
Toothaches are a vivid reminder that teeth aren't just pieces of hard tissue floating around in the gums. They are intricately formed sensory organs with layers of dentin and enamel protecting a living pulp. Coursing through the tooth's pulp is a vital bundle of nerves and blood vessels providing nutrients and sensation to each tooth. As long as the pulp stays healthy, you're rarely aware of the system at work.
Tooth pain can be especially alarming, but it's meant to warn you that something's not right. Pain tells us that the bundle of nerves and vessels inside your tooth is irritated, damaged, or under attack.
A deep cavity can give bacteria access to the inner nerve bundle. In some cases, a significant infection, called an abscess, may develop in your jaw without any symptoms at all. If our doctors determine that the nerve won't recover or if an infection is present, then root canal therapy may be suggested.
Modern anesthetics provide powerful numbing for the gentle removal of the inflamed nerve inside the tooth. The nerve canal undergoes disinfection and careful shaping, and a sealer fills the internal space. A filling or crown over the tooth helps return the tooth to its original function.
Are Root Canals Safe?
Internet articles continue to circulate claiming adverse health effects from root canals, despite years of research proving otherwise. Many of these claims rest on false theories put forward decades ago without any scientific basis. In fact, one popular Facebook article sounding a false alarm shakily rests on a 100-year-old study tossed aside long ago.
The American Association of Endodontists stays abreast of all research and can support the safety of this vital service. In fact, new techniques and materials make root canal treatment more successful than ever.
Why Do Most People Need a Root Canal
When a tooth becomes infected, that infection can spread into the center of the tooth, known as the dental pulp. This inner chamber houses nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels—making it one of the most sensitive areas of the tooth. As a result, an infection here can be extremely painful and often requires prompt treatment. At Forest Hills Family Dentistry, we provide efficient root canal therapy for patients in and around Cincinnati, OH to relieve pain and preserve your natural tooth.
How Root Canal Treatment Works
During a root canal procedure, a small opening is created in the tooth to access and remove the infected dental pulp. In some cases, the roots—responsible for sensing hot and cold and guiding initial tooth development—may also need to be removed. Once a tooth is fully developed, removing the roots will not compromise its structural integrity. This step is crucial to stop the spread of infection and eliminate pain.
After the infected tissue is removed, the inside of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. We often prescribe antibiotics to ensure any remaining bacteria are eradicated. To protect and stabilize the tooth, we fill the empty space with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Finally, the tooth is sealed and restored using either a composite filling or a dental crown.
At Forest Hills Family Dentistry, we offer tooth-colored fillings and crowns that are designed to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth. Whether your treated tooth is located in the front or back of your mouth, your restored smile will look completely natural.
For expert root canal care and long-term relief, call (513) 231-5353 or visit us at Forest Hills Family Dentistry in Cincinnati, OH.