Why Root Canal Therapy Is the Best Solution for Cavities

Root canal therapy is a better option for most patients than extraction. Even a single missing tooth can create a hiding spot for dangerous bacteria and put unnatural stress on the remaining teeth. The result is more cavities in the long run. A root canal avoids these disadvantages while freeing the patient from toothache pain.

In this post we’ll look at what causes cavities and why modern root canals are more comfortable and more effective than they were in the past. Use this information along with advice from your dentist to make informed decisions about your oral health.

What Causes Cavities in the First Place?

Every time you eat a meal you leave small amounts of food on your teeth. Harmful germs that live in your mouth scavenge energy from this leftover nutrition, secreting corrosive acids in the process.

These invisible invaders especially love sugars and simple starches. That’s why dentists urge their patients to limit consumption of these foods.

Over time, the acid secreted by these germs eat holes in your teeth. This exposes the sensitive pulp inside the tooth to bacterial infection. As the bacteria spreads, it destroys muscle and nerve tissues.

Your body’s immune system fights back against these microscopic attackers. This unseen battle inflames the sensitive nerves around the base of the tooth, which is why toothaches are so painful.

 Root Canal to the Rescue

By the time the infection has spread into the pulp, the tooth itself is in danger of being lost. The two most common ways of treating this problem are to either extract the tooth or perform a root canal. Here’s why a root canal is usually the better choice:

• A root canal destroys the harmful bacteria that are causing you so much pain and misery. It does this while preserving the tooth.
• A root canal seals the tooth from further infection, not only solving the immediate problem but preventing it from coming back.
• A root canal offers aesthetic as well as practical benefits. Not only does a missing tooth put your other teeth at risk, it can affect your appearance and cause loss of self-confidence.

Why Modern Root Canals Are Better Than Ever

Dental medicine is always getting better. Tools and techniques that were considered state-of-the-art yesterday are now obsolete.It’s important to remember this fact when listening to unpleasant stories from people who underwent a root canal years ago. Modern dentists have access to powerful technological tools, such as digital imaging devices, better anesthetics, and gentler, more precise drills.

These advantages enable them to catch out-of-the-way canals and nerve endings that might have been overlooked in the past. The result is not only better outcomes but a more comfortable experience for the patient.

Don’t let misconceptions based on antiquated information keep you from enjoying the treatment outcomes you deserve. Talk to your dentist about modern root canal therapy during your upcoming appointment. There’s no better way to enjoy freedom from pain while safeguarding your smile. We wish you and yours all the best throughout 2019 and for all the years to come.

About the Author

Dr. Bob Koenitzer earned his DDS degree from the University of California at San Francisco, widely regarded as the best dental school in the country. Dr. Koenitzer has been voted best dentist in Petaluma five years in a row, making him a leader in the local dental community. You can reach his office online or by calling (707) 766-6666.