Nobody wants to hear they need a root canal, but what if we told you it’s actually one of the best things that could happen to your troubled tooth? At Perry S. Kest DDS, LLC in Southbury, CT, Dr. Perry Kest and Dr. Elena Tomasi help patients from Newtown, Woodbury, and surrounding areas discover that root canal therapy isn’t something to fear—it’s your tooth’s second chance at life.
What Exactly Is Endodontics?
Endodontics is the dental specialty focused on treating the inside of your tooth. The word literally means “inside the tooth,” and it deals with the soft tissue called pulp that lives in the center of each tooth. This pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue that help nourish your tooth during development.
When this inner tissue becomes infected or severely damaged, endodontic treatment—commonly known as a root canal—becomes necessary to save your natural tooth.
Why You Should Never Fear Root Canals
Let’s bust the biggest myth right now: root canals don’t cause pain—they eliminate it. Thanks to modern anesthesia and advanced techniques, root canal therapy is no more uncomfortable than getting a large filling. Most patients are surprised by how manageable the procedure actually is.
The real pain comes from the infected tooth itself, not the treatment. Once Dr. Kest or Dr. Tomasi removes the infected tissue and seals the tooth, that throbbing, persistent ache disappears for good.
When Might You Need Root Canal Therapy?
Several situations may lead your dentist to recommend endodontic treatment:
- Deep decay that has reached the tooth’s nerve
- Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth that have stressed the pulp
- Large fillings that compromise the tooth’s structure
- Cracks or chips that allow bacteria to enter the pulp
- Trauma from accidents or sports injuries, even if there’s no visible damage
You might experience severe toothache when chewing, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, discoloration of the tooth, or swelling and tenderness in nearby gums. Sometimes, however, there are no symptoms at all—which is why regular dental checkups are crucial.
The Dangers of Delaying Treatment
Ignoring a severely decayed or infected tooth isn’t just about enduring pain—it can lead to serious complications. The infection can spread to surrounding tissues, creating an abscess that may require more extensive treatment. In severe cases, the infection can enter your bloodstream, potentially affecting your overall health.
Without treatment, you’ll likely lose the tooth entirely, requiring extraction and replacement with a bridge, implant, or partial denture. These alternatives are typically more expensive and time-consuming than root canal therapy.
Preserving Your Natural Smile
Root canal therapy allows you to keep your natural tooth, which is almost always the best option. Your natural tooth root continues to stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss that occurs after extraction. Plus, nothing functions quite like your original tooth.
At Perry S. Kest DDS, LLC, our team uses state-of-the-art technology to make your root canal experience as comfortable and efficient as possible. We’re committed to helping patients throughout Southbury, Newtown, and Woodbury maintain their natural smiles for life.
Don’t let fear keep you from the treatment that could save your tooth. Schedule a consultation today and discover why root canal therapy is truly a tooth’s best friend.
Perry S. Kest DDS, LLC