A root canal is a common dental procedure that involves removing infected pulp from the inside of a tooth in order to save it. If an infected tooth is left untreated, it can lead to serious consequences such as severe pain or an oral abscess. The leading dentists at Enterprise Dental Associates in Enterprise, AL, have performed countless successful dental procedures, including root canals and implants. They are here to discuss a few of the reasons you may need a root canal.

3 Reasons You May Need a Root Canal

1. Deep Decay

Bacteria in the mouth produces an acid that eats away at the enamel of the teeth, also known as a cavity. Typically, a dentist will drill the tooth and make a filling; however, if the decay reaches the deeper layers of the tooth and infects the pulp with bacteria, it requires a root canal procedure.

2. Severe Cracks

Grinding or clenching your teeth can cause cracks and chips in the teeth. If this damage extends as far as the pulp, a root canal procedure must be performed. Waiting too long can lead to symptoms such as extreme sensitivity, inflammation, and searing pain.

3. Repeated Dental Procedures

After a series of repeated dental procedures on a single tooth, there is the risk that the drilling can cause the pulp of the tooth to become inflamed. Dental procedures can place significant stress on a tooth and possibly cause damage, which is why your dentist may recommend replacing the filling  with a root canal.

If you are suffering from severe tooth pain and think you may need a root canal, count on the dentists at Enterprise Dental Associates in Alabama for the highest quality treatment. Contact them today at (334) 347-9564 to schedule an appointment or visit their website for more information about their full list of general and cosmetic dentistry services.