Tooth decay is a serious issue that can lead to excruciating pain, infection, and even tooth loss. Root canal therapy is a safe and virtually painless procedure that restores a damaged and/or infected tooth to proper health. Preserving your natural tooth with root canal therapy prevents having to replace your tooth with an artificial one. But how do you know if it’s time for a root canal treatment?
About Root Canal Therapy
During root canal therapy a tooth’s damaged pulp, or the soft inner layer made of nerves and blood vessels, is removed and the root canals are cleaned of infection and debris. The treated area is then filled with a special dental material that acts as a replacement pulp to fortify the tooth and protect it against further damage. Sometimes only a simple filling is needed to seal it all up, but often a custom-crafted dental crown is needed for adequate strength and stability.
How to Know If You Need Root Canal Therapy
If advanced decay and infection are left untreated, the damage can spread through your tooth and make its way to your roots. Intense, throbbing pain in your tooth, gums, and/or jaw is a telltale sign that you have a problem that needs to be addressed immediately. Other indicators could include chronic bad breath and sensitivity to extreme temperatures.
But the best way to know if you need root canal therapy is to come visit our expert dentists at Leesburg Family Dental! We can take digital X-rays of your mouth, evaluate the health of your teeth and gums, and recommend appropriate treatment for any problem areas.
Preventing Tooth Decay
In most cases, root canal therapy is necessary to address severe tooth decay and infection. To reduce your risk of needing root canal therapy, maintain exceptional oral health habits. Gently brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, floss at least once a day, visit us for regular dental cleanings and exams, drink plenty of water, and consume a balanced diet. Limit your consumption of sugary foods and beverages, like candy, pastries, white bread, crackers, potato chips, soda, and sugary coffee. Additionally, if you grind your teeth, ask us about getting fitted for a custom nightguard to protect your enamel from excessive wear!
Root Canal Therapy in Leesburg, VA
Are you experiencing bad breath, tooth sensitivity, and mouth pain? You may have a decayed or infected tooth that would benefit from root canal therapy. Visit us at Leesburg Family Dental and we’ll come up with a game plan to help alleviate your symptoms and restore your smile. Contact us to schedule an appointment!
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