Have you ever experienced a toothache that seemed unbearable, only for the pain to mysteriously vanish? Normally, severe tooth pain is a sign of infection which can be treated with a root canal. However, many patients question the necessity of the treatment once their pain fades away.
So, do you still need a root canal if your pain is gone? Continue reading to find out!
What Does Disappearing Tooth Pain Mean?
When your tooth is in pain, it means that the nerves are being affected by something in or around it. Sometimes, this is just sensitivity because of a change in temperature. However, more severe pain is linked to cavities or an infection near the center of the tooth—the pulp.
If the pain disappears, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the infection is gone. It could mean that the nerves in the tooth have simply been killed off. This is when your oral health is in the most danger because you may stop paying attention to the issue.
How Does a Root Canal Help the Pain?
Root canals aren’t solely about pain relief, but they do help. The treatment attacks the source of the problem within the tooth; getting to the root of it. Puns aside, a root canal aims to remove the infected pulp, preventing the spread of infection and potential tooth loss. Once the infection is gone, the pain will fade with it.
Do I Need a Root Canal?
It’s important to consult with your dentist to decide if you need a root canal. Diagnostic tools, like X-rays, intraoral cameras, and cone beam scanners can reveal the presence of severe infections or decay. Your dentist can take this information and figure out the extent of the damage and whether a root canal is the right treatment.
In the realm of dental care, a comprehensive approach is key. With or without pain in your tooth, you should see your dentist for checkups every six months. They can catch dental issues before they start, avoiding the need for root canals all together!
About the Practice
If you’re in pain or think you might need a root canal, the dental team at Beacon Dentistry of Weatherford is on the case! They use ultramodern diagnostic technology and the latest dental techniques to discover issues and treat your smile. No matter what ails your teeth, they can come up with a personalized treatment plan to restore your quality of life. Call (817) 594-7302 to schedule a root canal consultation or visit the website to look at their full menu of services.