When patients are told they need a root canal, it is not uncommon to watch them groan or wince in response. This is largely because root canals have gotten a bad reputation – an unfortunate and misunderstood reputation. The truth is, this endodontic procedure is quite heroic. Root canals are designed to save a dying tooth. Did you hear that? When one of your natural, permanent teeth is too damaged to recover on its own, root canal therapy can intervene and revive that tooth to health.
What happens during a root canal?
During a root canal, the diseased or infected inner pulp of the tooth is carefully removed. The inside of the tooth is cleaned and sanitized to eradicate any lingering bacteria, and then a special material is used to fill the tooth in order to prevent future infection. In many cases, the treated tooth will need a custom crown. This ensures the tooth regains proper strength and structure to withstand everyday dental function going forward.
Why do patients fear a root canal?
The primary reason that patients make that ugly face when a dentist utters the words “root canal,” is because they (falsely) believe the procedure will be painful. Know the truth – root canals are no more painful than getting a dental filling. Modern dentistry offers superb methods in anesthetics and sedation dentistry, which means you probably won’t feel a thing during your time in the dental chair. In addition, we have advanced imaging technology and refined techniques to ensure your root canal procedure is performed conservatively, with the highest level of precision and care.
What is the alternative?
Still want to avoid or delay that root canal? You should know your alternatives. Patients who need a root canal typically either have a tooth that is injured, decayed or infected very badly. In nearly all cases, these patients are aware of the compromised tooth, as it produces a significant amount of pain. Unfortunately, these matters don’t just resolve on their own. Your tooth will not grow back new structures, and all infections need to be treated. While you may think that extracting the tooth is the easiest, cheapest and quickest way to pain relief, you need to consider the expense, time and hassle of replacing that tooth once it is removed. Missing teeth require a prosthetic tooth (usually a dental implant) to prevent shifting of the surrounding teeth and other concerns.
A root canal can be your hero.
If you want quick pain relief while saving your natural tooth, root canal therapy is your answer. At Gainesville Dental Group, we promise a comfortable and rewarding experience. Please don’t hesitate to ask us more detailed questions about the procedure itself as well as what to expect after root canal therapy.
Posted on behalf of Gainesville Dental Group
