Root Canals

Toothaches provide a vivid reminder that teeth aren't just inert pieces of hard tissue floating in the gums. Instead, they're intricately formed parts with layers of hard substances overlaying a delicate core. Coursing through the tooth's center, this vital bundle of nerves and blood vessels provides nutrients and sensation to each tooth. As long as the tooth stays healthy, you rarely know the systems at work.

But pain rapidly changes your awareness in any part of the body. Tooth pain can be especially alarming, and it's meant to warn you that something's wrong. Pain tells us that the bundle of nerves and vessels inside your tooth is irritated, damaged, or under attack.

A deep cavity can give bacteria access to the inner nerve bundle. A crack extending into the same region can create stress that requires additional care. Sometimes, a significant infection may develop in your jaw without any symptoms. If Crow Canyon Dental determines that the nerve won't recover or infection is present, root canal treatment may be suggested.

Modern anesthetics provide powerful numbing for gently removing the inflamed nerve inside the tooth. The nerve canal undergoes disinfection and careful shaping, and a sealer fills the internal space. A filling or crown over the tooth helps return it to its original condition.

But Are They Safe?

Internet articles continue to circulate, claiming adverse health effects from root canals despite years of research proving otherwise. Many of these claims rest on unsubstantiated theories put forward decades ago without any scientific basis. They've been thoroughly debunked by the most credible sources, supported by unbiased research projects. One popular Facebook article sounding a false alarm shakily rests on a 100-year-old study tossed aside long ago.

Professional organizations routinely review a broad range of research projects throughout the world. The American Association of Endodontists stays abreast of all the current and past research and can support the safety of this vital service. New techniques and materials make root canal treatment more successful than ever. However, even older methods still hold a proven track record, allowing millions of damaged teeth to continue functioning.