Damaged teeth pose an oral health risk on their own, and to the teeth around them. If your tooth has been severely infected by bacteria, that infection will continue to spread until you take action to stop it. When tooth infection worsens, it moves past the outer layer of enamel, and into the vulnerable interior of the tooth, eventually reaching the root canals. A tooth that has been overcome by infection may eventually have to be removed because of structural damage, and to preserve the teeth around it. Root canal therapy can save a tooth if used in time.
Root Canal Therapy Removes Infection from the Base of the Tooth
Your root canals are the interior portion of the roots of your tooth. The tooth roots are located beneath the gum line, and they crucially hold your tooth in place within your jawbone. When the roots or root canals become compromised, the health of the entire tooth is at risk. Root canal therapy can reach the interior of your tooth to remove infected tissue. Your dentist will then restore the damaged canals and seal your tooth so that bacteria can’t get inside. A dental crown will often be placed over the top of your tooth to provide better protection.
Your Root Canals Perform an Important Function
While your roots hold your tooth in place structurally, your root canals are like a lifeline for tooth. The root canals carry blood vessels and nerves to and from your teeth, connecting them to other oral tissues. Those passageways can become infected with bacteria, and the bacteria can use the passageways to travel to other oral tissues and spread the infection. Keeping your root canals clean and healthy in vital to your overall oral health. That’s why it’s so important that you address something like a cavity as early as possible.
Teeth Damaged Beyond Repair May Require Extraction
What happens when you don’t seek root canal therapy for your infected tooth? Infection can continue to spread to other oral tissues and potentially cause blockages in blood vessels. Furthermore, infection robs your tooth of its structural stability. Your tooth may reach a point of disrepair that no longer allows you to functionally use it. In those cases, you may need to extract the tooth and replace it with a dental prosthetic. Options like dental implants can create a life-like replacement for your missing tooth, but it’s better to avoid the situation altogether when possible.
Restore Damaged Teeth with Root Canal Therapy at Stubbs Family Dentistry
Dr. Stubbs and his team understand that dental procedures can be intimidating. At this dental practice, you’ll be met with compassion and an approach that considers your overall well being during treatment. Schedule an appointment at Stubbs Family Dentistry in West Allis, WI by contacting the office at 414-541-8250.
