Do You Need Root Canal Therapy?

Don’t panic. It is not as bad as you think. Root canal therapy is really not any worse than getting a tooth filled. In fact, it is very similar and was developed as a procedure to save teeth. Once you lose your tooth or get it pulled more serious problems can develop. Your teeth can shift and your underlying jawbone can begin to atrophy (deteriorate). If either or both of these things happen you will have much bigger problems on your hands than a root canal. Take the quiz below to find out if you need root canal therapy.

True Or False?

1. True or False: Root canal therapy is also referred to as endodontic treatment.
2. True or False: If your tooth becomes infected you will need it pulled.
3. True or False: A foul taste in your mouth is one symptom of an infected tooth.
4. True or False: Sometimes your tooth will need extracting anyway.

Answers:

1. True: The word endodontic derives from the Greek words “endo” (meaning inside) and “odont” (meaning tooth), or inside the tooth. Endodontists specialize in the soft tissue inside your tooth, or the tooth pulp.
2. False: If bacteria reaches the pulp of your tooth due to trauma or excessive decay and causes infection, your dentist will want to save your tooth by performing a root canal rather than extract the tooth. You should always try to retain your natural tooth structure if possible.
3. True: Other symptoms include pain, swelling, and fever.
4. True: If your health is compromised in some way and you cannot get your tooth infection under control, root canal therapy may no longer be an option. To prevent the infection from spreading which may compromise your health further, your dentist may choose to extract the tooth for health and safety reasons.

ABOUT YOUR RENO, NV, DENTISTS:

Dr. Brian Evans, Dr. William Wager, and our highly experienced team at Wager-Evans Dental are devoted to providing first-rate dental care to patients of all ages in a comfortable, inviting environment. Located in Reno, NV, we proudly welcome residents from South Meadows, Double Diamond, Caughlin Ranch, Donner Springs, Meadowood, Sommersett, Arrow Creek, and all surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation or your next dental appointment, visit our office, or contact us today  by calling (775) 800-4845.