Typically, it’s best to save a tooth when you can. Toot canal treatment is usually chosen over extraction, though there are sometimes valid and necessary reasons for tooth extraction.
A Tooth-Saving Procedure
Unfortunately, root canal treatment has a bad reputation that is rooted in myth and outdated information. It is in fact an incredibly important dental procedure that preserves the integrity of your natural tooth and relieves pain! If you have decay or damage to your tooth that affects the pulp within the tooth, that tooth may be in trouble. That’s where root canal therapy comes in.
Inside Root Canal Therapy
When you get a root canal procedure, Dr. Bailey will numb the area and makes sure you are completely comfortable. Then, he will create a small hole in the tooth. This hole allows Dr. Bailey to remove the infected or inflamed pulp, clean out the inside of the tooth, and fill the tooth with a special material to prevent further infection, all while keeping the outer portion completely intact. The tooth will be sealed, and sometimes capped with a dental crown for additional protection and strength.
When Is Extraction Needed?
A root canal procedure will result in the preservation of the natural tooth, which is usually the best option for your oral health! However, there are times when a tooth extraction is needed. For example, problematic wisdom teeth, stubborn baby teeth, and if a damaged or infected tooth is beyond saving. If trauma or damage to the tooth is too severe, it may not be possible to save the tooth. And with decay, if a patient waits too long to address the issue, the decay can spread and eliminate the option to save the tooth.
At your appointment, we will take X-rays, discuss your symptoms, and evaluate your teeth and gums to determine the best solution for your dental issue.
Restorative Dentistry & More in Fredericksburg, VA
Do you have a tooth that needs saving? Drop us a line and we’ll get you fixed up. We offer an array of preventive, restorative, and cosmetic procedures. Contact our office for more information or to get your next visit scheduled. We look forward to seeing you!
