If your dentist discovers that you need a root canal treatment, your initial reaction may be one of fear. That fear is unwarranted, however, as today's technologies have made root canals quick, easy, and virtually painless. Many times root canal treatment takes no longer than having a cavity filled. Here's everything you need to know about root canal therapy, including why it is done, and what to expect during the procedure.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal, also called root canal therapy, treats severe decay, or infection within the interior of the tooth. The interior of your tooth is known as the pulp, or pulp chamber. This chamber is filled with nerves and capillaries which connect to the end of the tooth root. The leglike structures that extend to the tip of the root are the root canals.
The objective of a root canal treatment is to remove all of the decay within the pulp, disinfect the entire chamber, and then seal it to safeguard it from further decay and prevent a recurring infection. The entire process often only takes about an hour, and any severe tooth pain you were experiencing will be resolved almost immediately.
What to Expect During Root Canal treatment
Before your dentist begins the root canal therapy, they will numb the area of your mouth surrounding the tooth that will be treated. Once the area is completely numb, the dentist will use the existing cavity in the tooth to access the pulp. Using tiny specialized dental instruments, the pulp along with decay and infected material will be removed. In some cases, the canals may be gently reshaped to prevent future infection. The entire chamber inside the tooth will be disinfected. Medication may be injected to ensure that infection doesn't develop again.
Your dentist will fill the inside of the tooth with a special material and seal the hole that was used to access the inside of the tooth. In some cases, a filling will safely seal the tooth. However, for the long term, you will need a crown placed on the tooth to protect it from fracturing.
Any sharp, throbbing pain you had should resolve very quickly. You may experience some tenderness after your procedure, but most people can return to school, work, and activities immediately following a root canal.
Be sure to avoid chewy, sticky, or especially hard foods after receiving root canal therapy. Within just a few days, any lingering tenderness will go away.
Why Do I Need a Root Canal
Root canal treatment is done to preserve your natural tooth. If your dentist recommends a root canal it is because the tooth is so badly decayed and damaged, that without treatment, you will lose the tooth. Pain from an infection in your tooth will not subside on its own. On the contrary, you're likely to develop a painful tooth abscess if you don't seek treatment.
Preserving natural teeth is far better for your oral health, overall health, and budget in the long term. When you have a root canal, you will retain your natural tooth. If you opt to decline a root canal, the tooth will need to be extracted, and you'll need an artificial tooth such as a dental bridge, or dental implant, which will be much costlier than a root canal. If you choose an extraction but do not plan to replace the missing tooth, you'll risk the loss of bone through shrinkage. Your adjacent teeth may shift into the gap, and you may lose adjacent teeth in the future. Therefore, all efforts should be made to preserve a natural tooth, to prevent worsening problems in the future.
Caring 4 Smiles Dental Group is a team of modern and friendly dentists offering the highest quality dental care at affordable prices.
