Typically, the good thing about tooth decay is that it can often be treated with a minimally invasive procedure, such as filling the cavity that it’s caused. However, more severe cases of tooth decay require a more involved solution, such as root canal treatment, to address the more invasive nature of the problem. Today, we take a look at what severe tooth decay means, the signs that root canal treatment may be necessary, and how the treatment can save your tooth from more serious problems.
When tooth decay becomes severe
The decaying of a tooth isn’t natural in the sense that it’s inevitable. Yet, it does occur from the natural buildup of oral bacteria on the surfaces of your teeth, which is one reason why the condition is so common. The problem is that tooth decay progresses on its own, and often, faster than you may realize. When it becomes severe, it means that the infection in your tooth structure has reached the vulnerable tissues inside of the tooth’s inner chamber (called the pulp). When your tooth’s inner tissues become infected, the symptoms of your tooth decay become more severe, as well.
The signs of severe tooth decay
Tooth decay is serious from the moment it develops, and for several different reasons. Most importantly, the destruction of your tooth structure is permanent, and restoring the tooth’s health and integrity will depend on how much of the tooth structure has become compromised. In severe cases of tooth decay, the signs can include:
- Severe discomfort in your tooth
- Discoloration in your tooth structure
- Noticeable erosion of your tooth
- The tooth feeling loose
- And more
What can root canal treatment do?
A severe case of tooth decay means that the decay, or infection, has reached the tooth’s inner pulp chamber and the root canal that’s connected to it. These are the chambers that house your tooth’s nerves, blood vessels, and other soft tissues, which is why severe tooth decay causes such intense levels of discomfort. This is also why severe tooth decay is such a threat to your tooth and oral health. To mitigate this threat, root canal treatment can be performed to remove the infected tooth tissues and structure, then replace them with strong, biocompatible material.
Learn if your tooth needs root canal treatment
If you experience symptoms of severe tooth decay, then it may be a sign that you need root canal treatment as soon as possible to save your tooth. To learn more, schedule an appointment with us by calling Dreem Dentistry in Leawood, KS, today at 913-681-5500. We also serve patients who live in Overland Park and all surrounding communities.
