Post

When tooth decay extends, it can damage a tooth’s nerve, leaving patients with pain and sensitivity. In these cases, getting a root canal in Pembroke Pines becomes the only alternative besides a tooth extraction.

Nevertheless, many patients feel reluctant to get a root canal treatment, partly due to the pain it causes and partially because it can leave a weakened tooth. In this article, we’ll explain why that happens and what you can do to ensure that your root canal tooth stays healthy for years to come.

Does a Root Canal Treatment Weaken the Tooth?

When a tooth’s pulp becomes infected, dead, or dying—often the result of a large cavity that was neglected for too long—root canal therapy is required. To fix that, the dentist drills into your tooth to remove the problematic pulp.

To make sure that bacteria are eliminated, our dentist will then fill the canal with antibiotics. Once the canal has dried, it will be shaped to accept a permanent filling. However, this process renders the tooth dead.

The tooth will become hollow and, consequently, weaker. Sometimes, dentists must make the root canal wider to access it, which also weakens the tooth.

Moreover, the chemicals that are used to disinfect the root canal might also erode its interior surfaces. All of this combined makes teeth with large cavities that underwent root canal treatment weaker, and they may be more susceptible to fractures over time.

How Can You Prevent Damage to a Tooth with a Root Canal Treatment?

A tooth that underwent root canal treatment will be more prone to breakage than a regular tooth. Nevertheless, thinking that your dentist will simply leave it like that is a root canal myth.

The final step of root canal treatment is typically the placement of a dental crown, which will cover the area with a cap that matches the look and feel of your real teeth.

Applying a dental crown to it can provide the support your teeth need to overcome the brittleness. A dental crown is a fitted cap that covers a tooth, helping restore its appearance but also providing added strength.

Furthermore, maintaining the highest standard of oral hygiene is essential in the outcome of a root canal treatment. Tooth decay can affect even teeth that have been restored, so continue to brush and floss properly and see your dentist on a regular basis.

Dental issues like gum disease prosper in unhygienic conditions, so keeping the tooth clean can be all you need to make the brittleness less of a problem.

Learn All There Is About Root Canal in Pembroke Pines

When a large cavity goes unnoticed and the decay extends to a tooth’s nerves, a root canal is often the only alternative to a tooth extraction.

Even if a root canal leaves your tooth more brittle, a dental crown and proper oral hygiene can ensure that no further damage takes place. If you think you have a cavity that could need root canal treatment, reach out!