Are you scheduled for a root canal? If so, you may be feeling a bit anxious. Part of your anxiety could be because you don't know what to expect or don't realize how far this treatment has come in the last few decades. Even though significant advancements have been made in root canal surgery, there are still a few common misconceptions regarding this procedure that can prevent some people from having it done.
For example, there's the myth that it's better to have a tooth pulled than keeping it. Here's what you can expect from a root canal treatment, along with some considerations and warnings.
What Is a Root Canal?
When you hear the term "root canal", this refers to the soft tissue located within a tooth, containing a tooth's nerves. This tissue is mostly found in the roots of a tooth that's located under the gum.
Basically, root canals, known medically as a pulpectomy or a pulpotomy, are dental procedures for relieving dental pain and saving teeth. Most people require a root canal when the roots of a tooth become inflamed or infected.
After removing the pulp or damaged part of a tooth, a dentist cleans and disinfects the area and then fills and seals it with a rubber-like substance.
What about Pain and Discomfort?
One of the main questions most people ask when their dentists tell them they need a root canal is it it will be painful and/or uncomfortable. The actual root canal treatment is not painful.
The pain and discomfort that people feel is the result on an infected tooth instead of the root canal procedure. During the surgery, a dentist uses a local anesthetic, which numbs the tooth as well as the surrounding area.
Your dentist may recommend taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) before your treatment as this can help in reducing postoperative discomfort.
Pain or discomfort after your treatment is generally the result of periradicular (covering the roots of teeth) tissue inflammation. This can be managed by using NSAIDs for inflammation and antibiotics to prevent infection. Sometimes, prescription medications are prescribed when over-the-counter drugs are ineffective.
How Long Does a Root Canal Filling Last?
What Is the Average Cost?
How Many Appointments Are Needed?
Other Considerations and Warnings
Questions? Schedule an appointment with Charlotte dentist, Dr. William Linger. A root canal is one of my most common dental procedures. This treatment not only saves your teeth, but it can prevent needing bridges or dental implants in the future. Please contact us and learn more about our wide range of general and cosmetic dental treatments.