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Root canal therapy often gets a bad reputation. The inaccurate information about root canal therapy often prevents many patients from making better informed decisions regarding their teeth. Before you believe the hype, take a closer look at what the truth about root canals really is. It's not surprising that a vast majority of patients associate negative thoughts with the mention of a root canal. What many patients fail to recognize, however, is that root canal treatment can actually save your diseased tooth that would otherwise have to be extracted. When a tooth has become infected or traumatized to an extent where nerve damage is present, root canal therapy is required to save the tooth. The infection can spread deep into the roots of the tooth, causing an abscess to form. If left untreated, an infection in the root canal of the tooth can cause swelling of the face and head and even cause bone loss. Saving your tooth is always the best solution, and root canal therapy is an option that restores your natural tooth to its normal function and appearance. Dispelling the Root Canal Reputation The perception of endodontic therapy being painful started years ago when today's technologies and anesthetics didn't exist. Advances in dentistry today have made it possible for a dentist to administer root canal therapy that is no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed. In fact, according to the American Association of Endodontics, a recent survey revealed that patients who have experienced root canal treatment are six times more likely to describe it as "painless" than patients who have not had root canal therapy. Most patients who have root canal therapy experience little or no discomfort or pain, and enjoy a restored tooth that can last almost as long as its healthy original. That's because when patients go to their dentist with a severe toothache caused by damaged tissues, root canal treatment removes this damaged tissue, thereby relieving the pain you are currently experiencing. Easy Treatment with Early Detection Root canals are easily preventable with regular flossing, brushing and routine visits with your Richmond dentist. The earlier you identify a diseased tooth, the better your chances of saving and fully recovering the tooth. Look for the following signs and symptoms to detect an infected pulp: * A broken tooth
* A discolored tooth, with or without pain
* Sensitivity to cold and heat
* Swelling around the effected tooth
* Tenderness to touch and chewing In the days following the procedure, the tooth may feel sensitive due to the natural tissue inflammation. This is seen, especially, if pain or infection were present before the procedure. Until your root canal is completely finished, it is best if you minimize the amount of chewing on the tooth to prevent further damage and pain. Root canal therapy is proven to be highly successful allowing the treated teeth to last a lifetime. Whether an untreated cavity or a trauma has infected your tooth, you should see your Richmond dentist immediately. When a tooth is severely decayed, root canal therapy is usually the only option for saving the tooth. Talk with your dentist in Richmond about any fears or doubts you have about the procedure. This can ease any apprehension before the procedure is preformed, and help you feel more comfortable about the treatment.
Sean Hartmen writes for leading dentist in Richmond, Dr. Robert Steadman. Since graduating from the Medical College of Virginia School of Dentistry, Dr. Steadman has been in private practice for 20 years. He has also taught part-time at MCV Dental School, lectured statewide, and written articles for dental journals on topics such as Richmond Invisalign.
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