Gum and tooth health often go together. If a tooth is in bad shape or becomes lost, then the gums and supporting jawbone may suffer as well. Fortunately, root canal treatment can restore the health of both the damaged tooth as well as the gums and jawbone.
Root canal treatment is an endodontic procedure that involves removing infected or decayed dental pulp and filling the area with a substitute material (known as gutta-percha). This prevents prolonged or future infections. A dental cap, also called a crown, is placed over the tooth to restore its appearance, function, and size.
As previously mentioned, the purpose of root canal treatment is to restore the health of a tooth and prevent tooth loss. Other benefits of root canal treatment are:
Root canal treatment is a restorative procedure that aims to restore the function, health, and appearance of the damaged tooth.
One benefit of root canal treatment that often gets overlooked is that the procedure can improve gum health, as well. Gums support teeth, so when teeth are infected or severely damaged, the gums often suffer. This can lead to symptoms such as gum discomfort, swelling, discoloration, tenderness, and recession. In addition, the jawbone that supports the tooth may become damaged or start to deteriorate, as well. Root canal treatment can address these symptoms and improve periodontal health overall by treating the tooth infection or decay that contributes to gum issues.
Often, the inevitable result of leaving a tooth in need of a root canal untreated is the loss of the tooth. In some cases, an infection can spread to other areas of the mouth as well, which can further damage periodontal health. If the tooth is lost, then bone atrophy can occur in the jaw, leading to the need for a bone graft procedure in order to restore the lost bone. If any signs of a diseased, decayed, or damaged tooth are present, then it is important to see a dental professional as soon as possible.
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If you are experiencing symptoms that indicate a possible need for root canal treatment, then contact our office as soon as possible to schedule a visit. We can help ensure the damage to your tooth is minimized and treated, reducing the risk of long-term tooth or gum damage.
Request an appointment or call Alexandria Old Town Dental at 703-763-1078 for an appointment in our Alexandria office.
To manage the pain you will feel after a root canal treatment and to prevent infection, it is critical to follow proper aftercare. The treatment is standard, so it should not be a surprise to your dentist. Once you go home, you will need to follow some aftercare tips to keep your mouth healthy. Here…
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