Will Root Canal Therapy Affect The Appearance of Your Teeth?

A root canal therapy is a tooth-saving procedure that may be able to restore the health of damaged teeth. But will it change the appearance of the teeth? This is a common concern that patients have when root canal therapy is recommended. Here’s what you need to know about root canal therapy and their cosmetic effects. 

What is Root Canal Therapy? 

A root canal therapy is a procedure used to treat a tooth that is infected or at risk of infection. An infected tooth occurs when bacteria enters the root canal and infects the dental pulp, which is the soft tissue at the center of each tooth. A tooth is at risk of infection if there is a crack or deep cavity that could allow bacteria to reach the dental pulp. 

During root canal therapy  a small hole is made in the crown of the tooth that is used to access the root canal. The dental pulp is completely removed and the root canal is cleaned out and disinfected. The tooth is then filled with a replacement material that is resistant to infection. 

Cosmetic Effects of a Root Canal 

You may be thinking, what will my tooth look like after a root canal? Will there be a permanent hole? Will the hole be filled? Will the tooth look different from my other teeth? 

In most cases a dental crown is placed over a tooth following a root canal therapy. With advanced technology, a crown can be made of porcelain that is the same size and shape of your natural tooth. It will also match your other teeth for a natural look. 

If your tooth was severely damaged or discolored due to internal infection, a root canal therapy and crown will improve the cosmetic appearance of the tooth and give you a more natural looking smile. 

Benefits of Root Canal Therapy 

Additional benefits of root canals include:

• Improved oral health
• Relieve and prevent pain. A root canal can treat or prevent pain from an infected tooth.
• Prevents the spread of the infection
• Save the natural tooth. A root canal therapy  can save your natural tooth and root so that it can remain in place in your mouth. This prevents the other teeth from shifting out of place and eliminates the need for a prosthetic. 
• Improved aesthetics because you get to keep your original tooth
• Save money. Saving a tooth with a root canal therapy costs less than replacing it with a dental prosthetic, such as a bridge or dental implant. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Therapy

How will I know if I need a root canal? 

The most obvious sign is a toothache. This typically indicates an infected tooth. Discoloration of a single tooth is another common sign. But a dental X-Ray can diagnose a tooth that is at risk of an infection due to a deep cavity or a crack. Your dentist or endodontist can take X-Rays of your teeth to detect a risk. 

Why go to an endodontist for a root canal therapy? 

An endodontist is a dentist who specializes in the treatment of teeth from the inside, primarily the dental pulp. An endodontist undergoes further advanced training and education for additional 2-3 years after a formal dental school education. We have the expertise and advanced technology to perform a thorough and complete root canal with the best chance of saving the tooth. The likelihood that you will need endodontic retreatment is lower when an endodontist performs your root canal.

Schedule Your Root Canal Today 

If you’re in need of a root canal, don’t put it off. The sooner the tooth is treated the greater the chances that it can be saved and preserve your natural smile. Advanced Endodontics provides non-surgical root canal therapy that offers the best chance of saving your tooth and your smile. 

Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment at one of our 6 convenient locations.