If you’ve seen the way root canals are treated in the media, whether it be on the news or in your favorite television show, you were probably led to believe that the treatment was inherently painful or uncomfortable to receive. On the contrary, root canals are the last resort dentists go to in order to save damaged teeth. However, that doesn’t mean they put you in pain to make it happen.
To learn the facts on root canals and why you should get one for your tooth, keep reading!
Root Canals Treat Pain, Not Cause It
It’s become a popular stereotype that a root canal is going to cause significant pain. But the truth is actually the opposite. By not getting a root canal performed, you only allow the issue creating your need for a root canal in the first place to worsen. If a root canal is needed, it’s typically because of an infection inside the tooth, specifically inside the pulp. This area contains vulnerable nerve tissue, which is why oral infections lead to severe pain and discomfort.
In order to properly remove the infection, dentists need to access the tooth through the top of the crown, remove decay causing the infection, apply gutta percha and necessary antibiotics to lower future risk of infection, then seal the tooth with a crown to prevent bacterial exposure. Without treatment, pain will continue and the tooth may eventually need to be extracted.
How Dentists Improve Your Comfort
Prior to a root canal, dentists always take the person’s comfort into consideration. Not only do they reassure them that the root canal will remove their pain, but they’ll do everything they can to remove any potential for discomfort as the treatment begins. For example, dentists use local anesthetic to numb specific areas of the tooth, including the gum tissue surrounding it. If you’ve had a dental filling placed in the past, then you already have a pretty solid understanding of what a root canal should feel like.
Additionally, dentists can also provide multiple methods of sedation to help individuals become even more comfortable. If you need a root canal but have dental fear or anxiety, ask the dentist if they offer this treatment.
Do You Need a Root Canal?
Most people aren’t sure if they need a root canal unless there is significant pain inside coming from their tooth. Other common signs of needing a root canal include:
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold foods or liquids
- Tender or swollen gums
- Pimple-like bumps on gum tissue
- Darkening of the tooth, typically gray, brown or black in color
The last thing you should do is put off your root canal treatment because of pain. Instead of letting your tooth’s condition worsen, schedule an appointment with a dentist in Lincoln!
About the Author
Dr. Benjamin Gessford earned his DDS degree from the Creighton University School of Dentistry. He’s more than qualified to safely and effectively perform root canals, get his patients out of pain and get their oral health back on track. To learn more about his practice or schedule an appointment online, you can contact his East location through his website.