A cracked tooth can have a number of consequences. It detracts from your smile’s aesthetics and can cause significant discomfort. Additionally, the opening created by the crack can allow bacteria to infiltrate the core of the tooth, where they can cause a painful infection that has the potential to access the bloodstream and spread throughout the body.
Fortunately, an endodontist (a specialist who treats conditions affecting the interior components of the teeth) can address this concern with root canal treatment to avoid these consequences and save your tooth.
Benefits Of Saving A Damaged Tooth
Although there are advanced tooth replacement devices available to patients today, the ideal option is to save a biological tooth whenever possible. Doing so gives patients the optimal functionality of the tooth and has the greatest benefit for the smile’s appearance as well.
Even tooth replacements that consist of an artificial root structure and a prosthetic crown do not completely replicate the structure and function of a biological tooth, so if a root canal can save your cracked tooth, you should pursue this treatment rather than opt for extraction followed by an artificial restoration of some sort.
The Facts About Root Canal Treatment
In performing a root canal, the endodontist will create a small hole in the tooth in order to access the root canal chamber and remove all of the pulp material. After that step, the endodontist then thoroughly cleans the empty chamber to disinfect it and eliminate any bacteria that could repopulate the space following treatment. The empty chamber is then filled with an inert substance that has a texture similar to rubber.
Unfortunately, root canal treatment has a negative reputation that is undeserved. Patients perceive that the treatment is associated with significant discomfort, although most patients who actually have a root canal done report that the experience is no more uncomfortable than having a cavity filled.
If you have a cracked tooth, schedule a consultation at Access Endodontics as soon as possible to learn about how root canal treatment can help you save the tooth.
