For many of us, the mere mention of a root canal can bring on a wave of anxiety. If the thought of a root canal sends shivers down your spine, that is a perfectly natural response. We often fear the unknown. Let’s shed light on this common dental procedure and debunk the myths surrounding it. In reality, root canal treatment doesn’t cause pain; it exists to relieve it.
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What Exactly is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment, or endodontics (from the Greek words meaning “inside” (endo) the “tooth” (dont)), focuses on the interior of the tooth, or the “pulp chamber”. This area of the tooth contains not only nerve fibers but also blood vessels and connective tissues. Despite this, a tooth can survive and function without its pulp, which may become a source of inflammation or infection due to decay, extensive dental procedures, or injury.
How Do You Know if You Need a Root Canal?
- Pain when eating or when you put pressure on the area
- Sensitivity to heat or cold that lingers after the temperature has been removed
- Darkening of the tooth
- Swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums
Should you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult with your dentist promptly for a thorough evaluation.
What is the Root Canal Process?
This procedure entails the removal of inflamed or infected pulp, followed by cleaning, disinfecting, and shaping the inner chamber (canal). The next step is to fill and seal the cleaned space. With modern technological advancements, root canal treatments have become relatively pain-free experiences. It’s a set of procedures that not only alleviate pain but also save your natural tooth, preventing the problems associated with tooth loss.
What Should You Expect During Aftercare?
It’s normal to feel some sensitivity or discomfort for a few days following the procedure. This can generally be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. It’s crucial, however, to follow up with your dentist to complete the restoration of the tooth with a crown or filling, ensuring its strength and resilience for years to come.
Why Choose Root Canal Treatment?
Choosing root canal treatment over tooth extraction can save you from several issues, such as shifting of the adjacent teeth, which could lead to a misaligned bite, difficulties with chewing, and even the need for more extensive dental work like implants or bridges. What’s more, maintaining your natural teeth is always beneficial for your overall oral health and functionality. Unfortunately, there are circumstances where saving the tooth is impractical. You and your dentist will discuss which method is best in your particular case.
More FAQs
- Is it painful? With local anesthesia and advanced techniques, the procedure itself is comfortable – especially when compared to the pain associated with a root canal infection.
- Can an infected tooth cause other problems? Root canal infection can spread into the bone and gums immediately around the root end if left untreated. An association has been shown between periodontal (gum) infection and some systemic (general) body diseases. Be safe, don’t wait to get a root canal treatment done; just because it has stopped hurting doesn’t mean it’s not infected. Root canal treatment is designed to disinfect the tooth and stop the spread of infection making it safe and effective.
- Who performs the root canal? All general dentists have received endodontic training and can perform most procedures. More complex treatment may be referred to an endodontist; someone who has specialized training and limits their practice to endodontic diagnosis and procedures.
- How is the cost covered? The cost varies depending on how severe the problem is and which tooth is affected. Cost is based on the number of canals, degree of difficulty and location of the tooth in the mouth; for example, front teeth are easier to treat than back teeth. Root canal treatment is usually covered by dental insurance depending on your coverage. If it isn’t, our team may also offer you a payment plan.
How Can We Ensure Success?
Root canal treatment is a step towards preserving your natural tooth and maintaining oral health. With proper care, the treated tooth can last just as long as your other teeth. It’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Remember, saving your natural teeth should always be a priority when considering dental treatments.
At Coast Dental, we’re here to guide you through every step of your dental health journey, ensuring a comfortable, successful root canal treatment should you ever need one. And we hope to answer any questions you may have along the way. Say goodbye to fear and hello to a healthier smile with our expert care!
