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It can be disheartening to hear that you need a root canal treatment, especially if you are unsure exactly what that means. A root canal treatment is also known as endodontic treatment. It is a procedure that involves disinfecting the inner pulp of a tooth and removing damaged tissue and tooth materials. Understanding why and when a root canal treatment can become necessary can be helpful in understand why you may need one. Your dental team in Mansfield, TX can better help you understand your smile’s needs.

Decay That’s Been Ignored

Dental decay is a progressive condition. Unlike something like a cold that can clear up on its own, tooth decay will continue to get worse until it is treated. Tooth decay will start as an attack on the enamel (the protective outer layer of the teeth). Eventually, a cavity can form in the enamel because the acid and decay have attacked it. Once the protective outer layer is compromised, the sensitive inner parts of the tooth can become exposed to bacteria. If bacteria reaches the inner canal of the tooth, it can cause inflammation and infection. This can be painful and potentially dangerous because an infection can enter your bloodstream. A root canal treatment at this stage can save your tooth from a potentially necessary extraction.

Severe Damage

If a tooth is severely broken in an accident or injury, it can instantly expose the vulnerable inner parts of the tooth to bacteria. A root canal treatment can disinfect the inside of the tooth making it ready to be restored. Often after a root canal treatment, a crown is placed on the tooth as a form of dental restoration. A crown can restore the appearance and function of a tooth and essentially restoring your smile.

A root canal treatment can restore a tooth

A tooth with severe decay or damage can be treated with a root canal treatment. To schedule a consultation, call Mansfield Dental Associates in Mansfield, TX, at 817-473-6227. We proudly welcome patients from Mansfield, TX and the surrounding areas, including South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian, and more.