ROOT CANAL
Providing Emergency Dental Services for El Cajon, La Mesa, Spring Valley, Lemon Grove, Campo, Rancho San Diego, Alpine and Santee.
ROOT CANAL
Endodontics is the dental specialty that deals with the nerves of the teeth. Root canals are probably the most notorious procedure in dentistry and the most common procedure relating to endodontics. When a tooth becomes infected it is usually related to the nerves in the root of the tooth. The infected nerves need to be removed. If left untreated an infection can turn into an abscess, which is a much more serious problem that includes bone loss in the jaw.
When a Root Canal Is Recommended
A root canal may be recommended if you have:
- Tooth infection involving the nerve tissue
- Deep decay that reaches the inner portion of the tooth
- Persistent tooth pain or sensitivity that does not resolve
- Swelling or tenderness that suggests infection
- Signs of an abscess or worsening infection risk
How Root Canal Treatment Helps
Root canal therapy can provide several key benefits, including:
- Removes infected nerve tissue to stop the infection
- Helps prevent an abscess and related complications
- Protects the jawbone from infection-related bone loss
- Preserves your natural tooth instead of removing it
- Restores comfort so you can eat and chew normally
Why Early Treatment Protects Your Smile
An infected tooth nerve will not heal on its own. If left untreated, the infection can spread and may develop into an abscess, a more serious condition that can involve bone loss in the jaw. Treating the infection early by removing the infected nerve tissue can help stop progression, protect nearby structures, and support a more predictable long-term outcome.
Root Canal FAQs
Is a root canal only done when the tooth is severely infected?
- Root canals are most commonly performed for infections, but they can also be recommended when the nerve tissue is severely irritated and at risk of infection.
What happens if I don’t treat an infected tooth nerve?
- Without treatment, the infection can worsen and may develop into an abscess, which can lead to more serious problems, including bone loss in the jaw.
Does a root canal remove the tooth?
- No. The goal is to save your natural tooth by removing the infected nerve tissue inside it.
Schedule Your Root Canal Evaluation
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or have been diagnosed with a tooth infection, don’t wait. Schedule your consultation now to take control of your oral health and find out if a root canal is right for you.
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