Top 5 Reasons a Root Canal is Necessary: Explained by Bradley Harris, D.D.S. in

Root Canal Therapy 

Hey there! So, you might have heard about root canal therapy and wondered why it's necessary. Dr. Bradley Harris, a dentist at our Bartlett location, is here to shed some light on this common procedure. Here are 5 reasons why a root canal may be needed: 

1. Severe Tooth Pain: If you're experiencing persistent, severe tooth pain, it could be a sign that the nerve inside your tooth is infected or damaged. A root canal can help alleviate this pain. 

2. Decay: When a tooth has deep decay that reaches the pulp (the inner part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels), a root canal may be necessary to remove the infection and save the tooth. 

3. Sensitivity to Hot and Cold: If you feel sharp sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, it could indicate that the nerve in your tooth is compromised, requiring a root canal to address the issue. 

4. Swollen Gums: Swollen or tender gums near a specific tooth could be a sign of infection that may require root canal treatment to prevent further complications. 

5. Tooth Trauma: If a tooth has been injured due to trauma, such as a crack or chip, the nerve can become damaged, necessitating a root canal to save the tooth and restore its function. 

Remember, a root canal is a common and effective procedure aimed at saving your natural tooth. If you experience any of these symptoms, don't hesitate to reach out to Dr. Harris for a consultation at our Bartlett location. Your smile deserves the best care!