Five Myths About Root Canal Therapy
Root canal treatment makes most people uneasy and fearful, partly because it is believed to be painful. However, in reality, root canal treatment is done to ease the pain and also preserve your natural teeth. With the advancement of dental technology, root canal treatment is painless. Our dentist in Rancho Cucamonga CA will anesthetize the gums to ease discomfort.
Root canal therapy is effective. But, despite its 85 percent success rate, root canals are surrounded by a few myths, and below, we address some of them.
Myth #1: You Will Feel Pain During the Root Canal Procedure
Does a root canal hurt? No, they don’t. Yes, in the past, root canals were dreaded more than extractions because of the process of removing the infected pulp. However, with modern dental equipment and technology, the dentist will perform the procedure in a short, painless procedure. Plus, your gums will be numbed using local anesthesia to ease discomfort. If you have a gag reflex and dental anxiety, the dentist will use dental sedation to relax you. Visit an endodontist near you to learn more about sedation and root canals.
Myth #2: The Root Canal Procedure is Lengthy
No, it’s not. You will need only two dental visits for the root canal treatment near you. The first appointment is for removing the root canal and the second visit is for restoration. The dentist will perform the procedure in a few steps.
Dental assessment and examination. The dentist will use digital X-ray and imaging tests to examine your teeth and the spread of decay. Your surrounding teeth and bone will also be assessed for any deterioration. Next, the dentist separates the affected tooth with a dental dam to keep it dry
The pulp cavity is cleaned, reshaped, filled with a biocompatible material, and covered with a temporary filling.
On your final visit, the dentist will use dental crowns to restore the structure and strength of your teeth.
Myth #3: Tooth Extraction is Better
Some people may prefer extraction to the root canal, but tooth removal is not a better option. Teeth extraction involves the pulling of your permanent teeth, which don’t grow back. Having your teeth removed will not only leave unsightly gaps in between your gums but will also affect your dental structure.
Missing teeth cause the bone to deteriorate, and this further weakens the jawbone. It is advisable to fix these gaps with cosmetic dental solutions to preserve your structure.
Unless the dental decay is severe and has damaged your teeth, a root canal treatment is ideal.
Myth #4: You Don’t Need a Root Canal if Pain Isn’t Present
Take note; the absence of pain is not an indication that your teeth and gums are healthy. At times you may have an infection without severe pain, and this may prevent you from visiting the dentist in Fontana CA for proper treatment. It is, therefore, essential to check other symptoms such as pimples on the gums, swelling, discoloration of the gums, and prolonged tooth sensitivity.
Not getting a root canal treatment can cause the infection to spread to the surrounding tissues and lead to the accumulation of pus or abscess, which can further exacerbate the problem.
Myth #5: Dental Crowns Are Unnecessary After the Root Canal Treatment
Dental crowns may seem unnecessary after a root canal, but they are essential. After the pulp is removed, the tooth will be weak and prone to infections. Using a dental crown will restore the strength and function of the tooth. Dental crowns also help to protect the teeth from cavities.
Take Away!
A root canal, whether on the front tooth or back, is not painful because the dentist will use local anesthesia to reduce discomfort.
There will, however, be pain after the procedure, but pain relievers can help alleviate the discomfort. Additionally, avoid eating hard, chewy, and spicy foods to protect the affected area. Remember, the root canal can fail, especially if you had multiple canals or nerves that get damaged. Visit Talent Dental to learn more about the root canal procedure.