Determining if that toothache you're feeling will require a root canal or not can be hard to determine on your own. Injuries and unattended decay can be a sign that a root canal is a possibility. So is tooth sensitivity that lingers for a long time after you've come in contact with something hot or cold. But the absolute best way to find out if a root canal is necessary is to come into the office and speak with your South Pasadena, CA, dentist Dr. John Chu.

The Anatomy of Your Tooth

You've likely encountered the tooth diagrams in the office at some point in your life of coming in for consultations. You'll likely have noticed that beneath the gum line there is still more of your tooth, we call this the root and it serves a similar purpose to the roots of trees. The root helps to keep your tooth in place and stable in your mouth.

Nerves and other tissue located at the center of your tooth connect back to the rest of your body through canals in these roots. This soft center, referred to as the pulp of your tooth, is protected by two layers, dentin, and enamel.

The Role of a Root Canal

Decay or injury can cause infection to reach the pulp of your tooth. Which can travel along the canals and threaten the stability of your tooth and the health of the rest of your mouth. The most immediate symptom is often severe pain.

During a root canal procedure, your dentist removes the infected parts of your tooth and the soft tissue all the way through the roots. This will halt the infection, bring about pain relief, and save your tooth.

But since so much tooth structure is lost because of the infection and the procedure itself your tooth will typically require a crown for protection going forward.

Root Canal in South Pasadena, CA

Don't simply endure pain or ignore it, as it will not go away on its own. If you come into the office early enough you may be able to avoid a root canal. So schedule an appointment in South Pasadena, CA, with Dr. Chu by dialing (626) 799-0852.