Have you ever slammed your finger in a car door or dropped something heavy on your toe? If so, you may have lost the nail, which is the body’s way of protecting itself. By shedding the damaged nail, the body can prevent infection and allow for proper healing of the tissue underneath. While it may feel strange when the nail is missing, it will eventually grow back. Unfortunately, that’s not the case with your teeth, as they don’t have the same regenerative capabilities. In some cases, people lose a tooth because an internal infection has spread to the surrounding bone tissue. As the bone resorbs to fight the infection, it weakens the tooth’s foundation until the tooth falls out. The good news is that root canals can treat these infections, allowing us to save your natural tooth and maintain your smile confidence.
At East Longmeadow Family Dental Center, we understand the profound impact of tooth loss—from functional issues to mental health concerns. That’s why Dr. Zirakian’s goal is to restore your tooth whenever possible. By saving your tooth, we can help you feel comfortable and whole.
When Are Root Canals Needed?
We may suggest a root canal if the soft inner tissue of the tooth (called the pulp) becomes infected or inflamed. This can happen due to advanced decay, multiple treatments on the same tooth, a chip or crack in the enamel, or dental injury.
You may need a root canal if you’re experiencing severe pain, especially while eating. You might also notice that the tooth is sensitive to temperature or appears discolored, and the surrounding gums may be swollen or tender.
The Impacts of Tooth Loss: Why Our Goal Is To Save Your Tooth
If a tooth infection is left untreated, the body sends white blood cells to fight it. However, the buildup of dead cells and bacteria can lead to a painful pocket of pus called an abscess. Over time, the infection can spread to surrounding tissues, compromising blood supply and causing tissue destruction. As the tissues deteriorate, the tooth loosens until it eventually falls out.
Fortunately, root canals can save a tooth, preventing this escalation. If the tooth isn’t extensively decayed or damaged and there isn’t significant bone loss around it, we can perform a root canal. The procedure saves the tooth, repairs the tooth structure, and prevents us from having to pull the tooth.
But why is this so important? Why can’t the tooth just be extracted?
Self-Esteem Impact
Keeping your natural tooth helps preserve your smile and maintain your facial structure, both of which contribute to how you feel about your appearance. Losing a tooth, especially in a visible area, can create a noticeable gap that may lead to feelings of self-consciousness or discomfort in social situations. By saving the tooth, you prevent that gap, ensuring you look and feel your best. Preserving your natural smile can have a lasting impact on your confidence.
Function Impact
Beyond aesthetics, retaining your natural tooth is key to maintaining your mouth’s health and function. When a tooth is extracted, it can lead to bone loss in the jaw, as the bone no longer receives stimulation from the tooth’s root. Over time, this can weaken the jawbone and change your facial structure. Additionally, removing a tooth can cause neighboring teeth to shift, creating alignment issues that might require orthodontic treatment later. These shifts can also interfere with how you chew, speak, and even smile. Root canal treatment helps you avoid these complications by preserving the tooth and its natural support system.
Comfort Impact
Root canal therapy is not only less invasive than an extraction but also allows you to keep the comfort of your own tooth. After an extraction, you may need to adapt to a prosthetic replacement, such as a bridge or implant, which can feel unfamiliar and require an adjustment period. With a root canal, there’s no need to learn how to live with an artificial tooth. You simply continue to use your natural tooth, which feels and functions as it always has. This provides a sense of ease and familiarity.
How We Save Teeth With Root Canals
Root canals help you keep your natural tooth and peace of mind. If we don’t have to extract the tooth, we won’t.
Here’s how we perform a root canal:
- Dr. Zirakian numbs the area to ensure your comfort.
- He creates a small opening in the tooth to access the infected pulp.
- Dr. Zirakian removes the damaged pulp and thoroughly cleans and disinfects the tooth.
- He fills and seals the tooth with a rubber material to prevent further infection.
- Finally, Dr. Zirakian places a crown over the tooth to restore its strength and function.
In just 1-3 visits, your tooth
Tooth Pain? Root Canals Can Help—Book a Complimentary Exam Today!
Dealing with severe tooth pain or sensitivity? A root canal may be the key to saving your natural tooth. At East Longmeadow Family Dental Center, we know how important it is to preserve your smile and oral health. Root canals not only prevent the need for extraction but also help you maintain your self-confidence and oral function. Our experienced team, led by Dr. Zirakian, is committed to relieving your pain and protecting your natural teeth, so you can continue to eat, speak, and smile comfortably.
Don’t let tooth pain affect your quality of life—schedule a complimentary exam today to safeguard your smile!
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