Root canals play a vital role in preserving your natural teeth, particularly when performed with a crown placed afterward.
However, many people often wonder:
- What exactly is a root canal?
- Why is a root canal needed?
- What’s a crown, and why does a dentist recommend it after a root canal?
We’ll address why people need root canals and the benefits. Our goal is to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of these dental procedures, allowing you to make an informed decision.
When is a root canal needed?
A root canal is necessary when the innermost part of a tooth, known as the pulp, becomes infected or inflamed, which can occur from deep decay, repeated dental procedures, or trauma to the tooth. This portion of the tooth contains components that nourish it during its development, including:
- Vital nerves
- Blood vessels
- Connective tissues
However, when the root becomes compromised, it can lead to excruciating pain, sensitivity, and even the formation of abscesses. A root canal treatment is necessary to remove the infected or inflamed pulp, clean and disinfect the root canal system, and seal it to prevent further infection.
By undergoing a root canal, you can alleviate pain and save your natural tooth, allowing you to maintain a healthy and complete smile.
Why is a root canal needed?
Since the pulp contains nerves, you may experience pain that requires our dentist in Richardson, TX, to treat it to alleviate the source of the pain.
You may also need a root canal if you have sensitivity to hot and cold caused by infection or damage.
What happens during a root canal?
Our dentist removes the infected or inflamed pulp during the root canal procedure, thoroughly cleans and disinfects the root canal system, and then seals it with a filling material.
When you remove the source of infection and preserve the tooth structure through root canal treatment, this alleviates pain and prevents further complications, such as a tooth extraction.
Crown: protection and restoration
After a root canal, the affected tooth may become weakened and more susceptible to fractures or damage. To protect and restore the tooth’s strength, our dentist at Modern Dental typically recommends a crown, also known as a dental crown or cap.
General information about crowns
A crown is a custom-made prosthetic device that covers the entire tooth, providing a natural appearance while enhancing its strength and functionality.
Generally, the crown will fit snugly over the treated tooth, acting as a protective barrier against external forces and reducing the risk of further damage.
Moreover, a crown improves the tooth’s appearance as it strengthens. If the affected tooth had significant decay or discoloration before the root canal, our dentist could use the crown to restore its esthetics, giving you a confident smile.
Crown materials
The crown usually consists of durable materials, such as porcelain or ceramic, which we can color-match to blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth.
By understanding the importance of root canals and the benefits of crowns, you can make informed decisions about your dental health and work toward maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.
If you suspect you need a root canal, schedule a consult with our Richardson, TX, dentist to help you decide the best treatment for your specific conditions.
Or:
- Call us: 972-578-6633
- Email us: info@moderndentaltexas.com
While we’re in Richardson, TX, we welcome patients from Addison, Plano, Garland, Sachse, University Park, Carrollton, and Highland Park.