Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, doesn't have the best public image. When most people hear the words "root canal," their first reaction is usually about the pain associated with this procedure. In reality, though, things are a little different.
A root canal procedure isn't an unpleasant treatment in and of itself, but it's frequently caused by discomfort. A root canal treatment is a highly successful approach to treating a problematic tooth. In this article, we have gathered six facts about root canal treatment that you should be aware of.
1. The absence of pain doesn’t mean that you don't require a root canal procedure
Many people attempt to live with a toothache and put off going to the dental specialist for a variety of reasons. When bacteria assault the pulp of the tooth (which contains nerves and blood vessels) you feel pain. If you wait too long, the pulp may die and the discomfort may go away, but the infection may spread to the roots. As a result, consult your dentist as soon as you notice any pain or discomfort so that your infection doesn’t spread.
2. Root canal treatment is not always painful
A root canal procedure is not painful. However, you can experience debilitating pain when the base of the tooth is infected or inflamed. A dentist will use an anesthetic to numb your tooth and root before performing the root canal, thus eliminating tooth discomfort. When the treatment is finished, you should have a completely functioning, pain-free tooth.
3. Root canal procedure helps save the tooth
Some people believe that extracting the infected tooth is preferable to a root canal procedure. However, it is entirely dependent on the severity of the infection. Some serious inflammations are too dangerous and difficult to cure with a root canal, thus your dentist may consider tooth extraction. But most dentists try to save the tooth if possible. Moreover, some people believe that having a root canal surgery kills the tooth. But the truth is that this procedure helps clean the inside of the tooth, allowing it to recover.
4. Root canal treatment is not invincible
With proper care and maintenance, root canal treatment and crowns can endure for more than 15 years. However, it does not completely protect your teeth from potential harm caused by tooth decay or other oral issues. As a result, you need to take additional care of your teeth and maintain proper oral hygiene. To avoid further damage, make sure to see your dentist at least once every six months.
5. Root canal treatment can be done during a single visit
In most cases, a root canal treatment can be completed in one visit to the dentist's office. The procedure is done under anesthesia to alleviate the discomfort caused by the infected root. The dentist cleans the diseased or damaged tooth roots with specialized drills and files. The dental canals are carefully cleaned and shaped, and germs, pus, and debris are eliminated. The cavity is disinfected before being dried, sealed, and filled.
6. Untreated tooth decay is the most common cause of root canal treatment
Some studies show that 87 percent of untreated cavities can result in a root canal infection. If tooth decay is left untreated, dangerous bacteria can invade the tooth roots and inflame the tissues within (the tooth pulp). So, the next time you consider letting your toothache go away on its own, think twice.
The bottom line
It is essential to understand that root canal procedures are not as scary and painful as many people think. Moreover, it can help you save the tooth and get rid of bacterial infection in its roots. So if your teeth hurt or you have recently had a severe toothache, don’t delay your dental appointment.
