Root canals have an intimidating reputation, but knowing how these procedures work can take a lot of stress out of the process. Root canals have ended countless toothaches and protected millions of patients from tooth loss, and these procedures are incredibly painless. Here’s a brief guide to why root canals are nothing to be afraid of and why you won’t regret getting one if your dentist recommends it.
Root Canals Terminate Toothaches
Untreated dental decay will eventually breach the enamel and dentin layers of the tooth, resulting in the infection of the sensitive pulp tissue within. This will cause a severe, throbbing toothache that will not get better on its own, and neglecting to resolve this issue will eventually lead to the loss of the tooth and possibly the infection of the neighboring teeth. A root canal can eliminate this sort of infection at its source and bring the patient immediate relief.
Modern Root Canals Are Painless
You have probably seen root canals portrayed as horrible ordeals many times on TV and in movies, and, while these depictions can be quite funny, they are far from true to life. The root canal procedure always begins with the dentist administering an appropriate anesthetic to ensure that you feel no pain throughout the process. While you may experience some soreness in the days following your root canal, this should be mild, temporary, and easy to manage with over-the-counter pain medication.
Root Canals Prevent Tooth Loss
Root canals are used to eliminate severe dental infections, but they can also be administered to protect a compromised tooth from a host of oral health problems. A tooth that is injured in such a way that leaves the pulp tissue exposed will be incredibly vulnerable to infection, but performing a root canal and applying a suitable restoration can reinforce the tooth so it can last much longer than it would otherwise.
If your dentist recommends a root canal, you can rest assured that receiving it will be in your best interest. Following your aftercare instructions will help you keep your recovery process brief, comfortable, and complication-free.
About the Practice
Darby Creek Dental offers the finest oral health services in Marysville. Led by Drs. David W. Cleveland, Deric R. Budendorf, and Kyle S. Wylde, the staff sees to each patient enjoying sincere courtesy and stellar customer service in a warm and welcoming office environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry such as root canals. To learn more about the root canal process, contact the office online or dial (937) 644-8822.