Root canal treatment isn’t exactly a popular restorative dental treatment option, though it is more common than many patients might expect. That’s largely because the severe tooth decay that it’s meant to treat can affect nearly anyone, especially if they don’t treat tooth decay as early as possible. Today, we examine why it’s preferable to save a severely infected tooth with root canal therapy if it’s still possible, and what could happen if you wait too long to seek treatment.

Why your tooth needs root canal treatment

One of the reasons why patients may hesitate at the thought of root canal treatment is because the procedure can sometimes seem like an extensive one. Root canal treatment, which is also referred to as endodontic treatment, involves cleaning the structures and tissues inside of your tooth’s inner chamber and root canal. This is more involved than a more conservative tooth filling procedure, which is the typical solution for addressing less severe tooth decay and cavities. If root canal treatment is necessary, it means that your state of tooth decay has reached a critically severe level, and the risks to your oral health are significantly higher.

Why extracting the tooth isn’t the better option

There are several reasons why treating a tooth that’s in trouble as soon as possible is important. Not only does addressing the problem alleviate any discomfort associated with it, but it also helps prevent any more severe threats to your tooth and oral health. For example, if you lose the tooth to decay or need to have it extracted, you’ll then have to deal with the problem of having lost the tooth and what that could mean for the rest of your oral health long-term. In extreme cases, tooth extraction might be necessary, but when root canal treatment is recommended, it means you still have the chance to save and restore your remaining healthy, natural tooth structure.

What else root canal treatment can help you avoid

When you seek root canal treatment for an internally infected tooth, the benefits to the comfort and function of your tooth are almost immediate. Yet, saving your tooth also has several benefits to your oral health, your bite function, your smile’s appearance, and much more. Stopping the infection in your tooth from becoming more severe will help you avoid any significant complications that could result from the spread of the infection. Also, avoiding the loss or extraction of your tooth will help you avoid having to replace the tooth in the near future.

Learn how to save your tooth with root canal treatment

If your tooth can still be saved with root canal treatment, then it’s typically the better option compared to extracting the tooth or waiting until it’s lost on its own. For more information, schedule a consultation by calling Modern Smile in North Hollywood, CA, today at 818-763-9353. We also proudly serve patients who live in Burbank, Toluca Lake, and all surrounding communities.