It is certainly not a procedure everyone has to have done, but root canals are one of the most commonly performed dental treatments available. A root canal is designed to save a severely damaged, infected or decayed tooth from having to be extracted. Root canal therapy is quite straightforward. Despite their bad reputation, there should be nothing to fear or put off. If your dentist has suggested a root canal, here’s what you need to know now:
- Time is of the essence.
- In other words, don’t put your root canal therapy off. If you do, the damage or decay that has invaded your tooth will likely progress to the point that a root canal is no longer an option. In such cases, an extraction will be necessary. Before you reside to this as an easier and cheaper solution, be aware that a missing tooth will need to be replaced. Dental implants are far more costly and complicated than root canals. Save your tooth, your hassle and your wallet by making the appointment sooner rather than later.
- It Won’t Hurt
- Refuse to believe common myths that claim root canals as painful. This is simply not the truth. With the help of a local anesthetic (and even sedation dentistry if you prefer), your root canal will be no more painful than getting a dental filling. It may take longer, but you’ll be kept comfortable the entire time. We will even use a small apparatus to keep your mouth propped open so that your jaw muscles can relax. Once the procedure is complete, the nerves of your tooth will be gone – which means the pain of your infected tooth will also be eliminated!
- You May Need a Crown
- It is not uncommon for patients to need a dental crown following their root canal procedure. This is to protect a non-vital tooth and allow it to function normally and look natural.
If you are nervous about your upcoming root canal or have specific questions or concerns, do not hesitate to call us at Park South Dentistry. Root canals are a procedure we perform on countless patients each year. We have refined our technique and maximized our results when it comes to this type of endodontic therapy.
