The Benefits and Risks of Root Canal Treatment in Hilliard, OH

Understanding Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy is a widely used procedure to address tooth pain and infection, but it often carries an air of mystery and apprehension due to myths and outdated information. At Fishinger Dental in Hilliard, OH, we believe informed patients make the best decisions for their oral health. 

Let’s explore the benefits and risks of root canal treatment so you feel confident about your care. Contact Fishinger Dental today by calling (614) 771-6060 and scheduling an appointment with our Hilliard dentist.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

1. Immediate Pain Relief

Root canal therapy eliminates the infected or damaged tissue inside the tooth, often providing immediate relief from severe pain or sensitivity caused by the infection.

2. Prevents Infection Spread

Untreated tooth infections can spread to other parts of the body, such as the jaw, sinuses, and even vital organs. Root canals effectively remove the infection, safeguarding your overall health.

3. Preserves Natural Teeth

Unlike tooth extraction, a root canal saves your natural tooth, preserving your smile’s aesthetics and functionality. Keeping your natural teeth prevents misalignment and other complications caused by missing teeth.

4. Restores Chewing and Speaking Abilities

A treated tooth regains full functionality, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile without discomfort or self-consciousness.

5. Protects Long-Term Oral Health

Maintaining good oral health is essential for your overall health and well-being. Root canal therapy can help you maintain healthy teeth and gums to prevent complications like bone loss, gum disease, and the need for more invasive dental work in the future.

Risks of Root Canal Treatment

Like any medical procedure, root canal therapy carries some risks. While these risks are relatively rare, it’s essential to be aware of them before undergoing treatment.

1. Incomplete Removal of Infection

If the dentist doesn’t remove all of the infected tissue during the root canal therapy, the infection can reoccur, potentially requiring retreatment or tooth extraction.

2. Post-Treatment Tooth Fragility

Teeth treated with root canals can become brittle over time, making them more prone to fractures. Placing a dental crown over the tooth helps reinforce its strength and durability.

3. Discoloration of the Tooth

The treated tooth may darken slightly, though this can be addressed with teeth whitening or porcelain veneers if aesthetics are a concern.

4. Minor Discomfort After the Procedure

Some patients may experience mild swelling or tenderness after the treatment. This is typically temporary and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.

Endodontic Treatment Alternatives

In some cases, root canal therapy may not be the best option for treating a damaged or infected tooth. Alternatives that may be recommended include:

• Tooth Extraction: In cases of severe damage or infection, removal of the tooth may be necessary to prevent health complications and protect your overall health.
• Antibiotics: Our dentist may prescribe antibiotics to treat an infected tooth. While antibiotics can reduce infection, they can’t eliminate bacteria inside the tooth. They’re typically used as a supplementary treatment.
• Pulp Capping: This procedure involves removing a small amount of damaged or decayed tooth material and protecting the tooth pulp to allow natural healing, but it’s only effective in the early stages of decay.
• Apicoectomy: This surgical procedure removes the tip of the tooth root and any surrounding infection, often performed if a previous root canal wasn’t successful or has persistent infection.