This is, perhaps, one of the most difficult questions to answer when you are seeking information on root canals. The reason for this is because a dentist has studied for many years and the science of dentistry involves many skills which the layperson may not really understand.
However, there are some easy ways to explain why your dentist feels you need a root canal and we’ll try to cover a few of them for you so that you can understand how serious a matter this is. Your key takeaway should be that if a root canal is the recommended treatment, you should give it the weight it deserves.
An Effort to Save the Tooth
Most often, a tooth becomes so badly damaged or infected that there are only two options, extraction or root canal therapy. A good dentist will try to save your tooth for a number of reasons, but primarily to preserve your bite – the alignment of your teeth. Instead of extracting the tooth, your dentist may feel there is a high percentage of saving it.
Signs That a Tooth Is Beyond a Simple Filling
Some cavities can be fixed with a simple filling. The decayed area is filed down, drilled into and filled to avoid further decay and pain. However, signs that indicate a tooth needs a root canal would include:
- Severe and lasting pain in the tooth and surrounding soft tissue.
- A tooth that has turned black, even when pain isn’t present at this time.
- X-rays and other diagnostics reveal that the root is dead or dying.
- Badly cracked or damaged tooth in which the nerves in the root are exposed.
Those are just the most common reasons your dentist has for recommending a root canal, but you can see the importance of considering this option.
Types of Testing Your Dentist May Use
As for the type of diagnostics your dentist may use, these might include what is referred to as thermal, which is sensitivity to hot and cold when applied to the tooth. Your dentist may use percussion, which is what you feel when he/she taps on the tooth. Most of us find that annoying but there is a very good reason why you need to let your dentist tap away!
A root canal specialist may use electric pulp testing to evaluate the condition of the root in which the nerves and blood vessels reside, and you will always undergo at least one, or a series of X-rays, conventional or cone-beamed. If any of the signs and symptoms sound familiar to you and you are in a great deal of pain, contact us because we are, without a doubt, the best root canal specialist in NYC. Are you looking for a truthful answer? That’s what we’re here for, so give us a call.
If you need dental care, call one of the best root canal dentists in New York at 646-205-3045. Our offices are available to help you to get the support and care you need to improve your oral health and protect your teeth.