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A common cliché is when patients reference "I would rather have a root canal than (something they really don't want to do)." It is a statement that does not accurately reflect modern root canal treatment. Does having root canal treatment really hurt? Patients often ask questions about root canal therapy that accompanies many myths. Root canal therapy is necessary when a cavity has significantly progressed into the interior of the tooth. There is no reason to anticipate that scheduled root canal appointments will involve pain or discomfort. For most people, their experience during root canal treatment will be no different than what they experience when having other types of dental procedures performed, such as having a filling placed. A root canal's stress-inducing reputation took charge several decades ago, when root canal treatment really was painful. Today, its reputation remains unchanged, even though the procedure itself has changed. Patients receiving root canals today can describe the procedure as painless, rather than painful, putting an end to root canal therapy myths. Myth: Root canals are painful Chances are it will hurt a lot more if you don't get root canal therapy. If the pulp in your teeth becomes infected, that infection may cause one of the worst and most persistent toothaches you have ever had. Your dentist, or endodontist, will first numb the tooth with a local anesthetic. A root canal saves a tooth by removing the pulp - the soft inner tissue containing nerves and blood vessels - that has been damaged by deep decay. The reality is that, most root canal procedures are performed because you are already suffering from severe tooth pain. With modern technology and improved anesthetics, root canal treatments are no more painful than having a filling. Performed by endodontic specialists, your root canal surgery will eliminate the source of this pain, and enable you to resume a normal life within a few days. Myth: Root canals cause other illnesses The aim of root canal therapy is to save a tooth that has become infected or dead, in an attempt to make it functional and pain free. Root canal treatment is a safe and effective procedure that does not lead to other complications in your health. The purpose of root canal therapy is to remove infected tissue and prevent it from spreading into other areas of your mouth or body.
Myth: Extracting a tooth is a better option than root canal therapy
Saving your natural teeth when possible is your best option. Artificial teeth can limit your ability to chew certain foods necessary to maintaining a well-balanced diet. Not only will a root canal save your ability to enjoy all of the foods that you love, but it will save you money. Root canals have a very high success rate, with many teeth lasting a lifetime. Placement of a bridge or an implant generally requires significantly more time in treatment and may require additional procedures for adjacent teeth and supporting tissues. The truth is, people suffering from certain kinds of tooth pain benefit from root canals, rather than suffer. Remember, delaying treatment for an infected tooth may lead to serious consequences and make treatment more difficult. Maintain your regular dental visits with your dentist in Westport, Tiverton and Dartmouth.
Sean Hartmen writes for Dr. Michael Katz, an experienced dentist in Little Compton. With over 30 years of experience in all areas of dentistry, this Westport, Tiverton and Dartmouth family dentist is highly qualified to meet the dental needs for patients of every age.
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