Root canal therapy is one of the most common treatments that can put a stop to a severe toothache. If you are in pain, you may be eager to undergo this procedure! But what if your toothache suddenly stops on its own? Do you still need a root canal? Well, that really depends on your unique circumstances. This blog post explains some points that you should keep in mind.
Why Is Root Canal Therapy Performed?
The primary purpose of root canal treatment is not to stop pain, although that is a major benefit. Rather, the goal is to remove infected and damaged tissue from within a tooth. This can prevent the need for an extraction, support your systemic health, and spare you from having to pay for tooth replacement in the future.
Additionally, keep in mind that a toothache is not the only sign that a root canal is needed. If a tooth has visible signs of damage, is unusually dark, or is abscessed, you may need a root canal regardless of whether you are experiencing any discomfort.
What Does It Mean if Your Tooth Stops Hurting?
When a severe toothache suddenly disappears, that does not necessarily mean all is well! In fact, teeth are incapable of healing themselves. Often, if strong tooth pain unexpectedly goes away, it means that the infected tooth has died and can no longer send pain signals to your brain. However, the infection can continue to spread and affect nearby tissues. In order to avoid complications like severe dental damage and systemic illness, it is urgent that you receive treatment!
Depending on the extent of the damage to the tooth, your endodontist might be able to save it with root canal therapy. Otherwise, it might need to be extracted.
Other Treatment Possibilities
A toothache does not always signal the need for root canal treatment or an extraction. For example, if you have intermittent pain, you might have a small cavity that your general dentist can address with a filling. Or, if you experience dull and widespread pain in your upper dental arch, that can indicate a problem with your sinuses. As you heal, the discomfort may go away on its own.
Do Not Delay Care
A toothache that suddenly disappears can signal trouble for your oral health. Visit a qualified dental professional to receive a diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Your diligence could spare you from future pain and maybe even save your tooth!
Meet the Practice
At Parkway Endodontics in Middleburg Heights and Lorain, our two highly skilled endodontists regularly perform root canal therapy for a variety of patients. If you are concerned about tooth pain, a disappearing toothache, or other signs that you might need our services, we are ready to evaluate your case and provide a professional opinion. Contact us at 440-960-2660.
