Learning that you need a root canal can be a little distressing. There are a lot of misconceptions surrounding this common dental procedure regarding why it is performed, what the procedure is like and what happens afterward. Learning the facts is the best way to put your mind at ease about this often essential treatment.
Why Root Canal Therapy?
As a dentist, I recommend root canals for a couple different reasons. The most common reason is an infection in a tooth’s pulp. This often occurs as the result of an untreated cavity. When bacteria reaches the pulp via a cavity, the resulting infection cannot be treated using antibiotics. The infection causes painful swelling, reduced blood flow to the tooth and prevents the pulp from healing. When left untreated, an infection in the pulp can lead to an abscess.
You may also need a root canal if your tooth has experienced damage to the pulp that cannot be repaired. Impact injuries to the tooth, fractures and multiple fillings or other restorative treatments on a single tooth can all lead to pulp injuries that cannot be fixed. Sometimes the pulp can heal on its own, but in many cases, inflammation prevents this from happening.
How a Root Canal Works
During a root canal, infected or inflamed tooth pulp is carefully removed. First, the tooth and surrounding tissue is numbed using a local anesthetic. The pulp is removed from the tooth using a drill and other tools, and the tooth is filled below the gum line with medication, temporary filling materials and a final root canal filling. Sometimes, a crown or permanent filling is needed following a root canal. If one is needed, you may be fitted with a temporary one until the permanent one is ready and cemented in place.
Common Misconceptions About Root Canals
Despite root canals being one of the most common dental procedures in the United States, the procedure is surrounded by misconceptions that can make it seem quite scary. Fortunately, modern root canals are fairly straightforward and not nearly as bad as a lot of people would have you believe. Here are some of the most common misconceptions that often cause people to avoid this often highly beneficial treatment.
Having a root canal is extremely painful. This is the most common misconception about root canals, and it often prevents people from undergoing the treatment. In reality, the entire procedure is generally painless because the tooth and surrounding tissue are numb. After treatment, pain and inflammation are actually reduced.
After a root canal, the tooth is more prone to bacteria. A root canal gets rid of infections. After the pulp is removed, the area is thoroughly cleaned. A dental filling is used to prevent bacteria from re-entering the tooth. A root canal strengthens a tooth and makes it less prone to infection.
It’s better to have a tooth pulled. Whenever it is possible to save a tooth rather than having it pulled, it is the best option. Misalignment can occur after a tooth has been pulled. Also, having your own natural teeth is better and more affordable than having prosthetic teeth.
Root canals are straightforward procedures that are very effective for saving your natural teeth. Once a tooth has healed completely from a root canal, it will be strong, and you will be able to continue eating the same foods you have always enjoyed without pain or discomfort. There is no reason to fear a root canal. When you visit me for this procedure, my staff and I will do everything in our power to ensure that your experience is as pleasant and pain free as possible.