The following really cannot be overstated: Root canal therapy should not be seen as intimidating or a cause for anxiety. Not getting a root canal when you need one should inspire far more fear than this straightforward yet transformative, essentially painless procedure!
Why You Should Never Put off a Root Canal
Tooth decay never simply “runs its course” and goes away. If your teeth are sending you warning signs, the best thing you can do, in the interest of immediate comfort and to save time, money, and pain in the long run, is to pay attention.
Here are a few reasons why you should never neglect the need for root canal therapy:
- To stop the spread of infection. The nerve endings, tissues, and blood vessels, or “pulp,” that reside beneath a super-durable outer enamel, are highly susceptible to infection from harmful bacteria. Left untreated, not only will this infection cause excruciating pain, but it can also spread to other healthy teeth, the jawbone, and beyond.
- To save your natural tooth. Postponing a root canal for too long will eventually cost your entire natural tooth. However, timely root canal therapy can save some of the natural tooth, helping to maintain your natural bite and providing support for the remaining teeth and the jawbone.
- To fend off less painful but more serious problems. If the pain in an infected tooth seemingly “just goes away,” it’s not because the tooth has healed. Rather, this is a sign that the nerves within the tooth have died. Unfortunately, not only does the infection not die with them, but it can continue to spread, causing additional dental issues and even contributing to overall health issues like heart disease.
- Because root canals are essentially pain-free for the patient! We’ve said it before, but it bears repeating: despite their reputation, root canals are among dentistry’s less painful procedures. Your most painful root canal is the one you put off getting!
Efficient, Pain-Free Root Canal Therapy in Charlotte, NC
If you’re in Charlotte and are experiencing symptoms that suggest you may need a root canal, have been putting off a root canal you already know you need, or are seeking a less complex treatment like tooth-colored fillings, contact dentist Dr. Justin Harlow and the highly skilled and friendly team at Harlow Dental to schedule an appointment.