What Really Happens in a Root Canal
Root Canal Treatment – it’s a scary term for many. When dentists prescribe a root canal procedure to treat a damaged or diseased tooth, our nerves can get the best of us. Yes, it’s a dental surgery procedure involving the use of anaesthesia, so there’s bound to be some level of pain, right? However, it’s not unmanageable, and it’s not as scary as most people may think. Fortunately, root canal procedures are so common and advanced these days that plenty of patients around the world opt for this procedure. After all, it’s designed to save and treat our teeth – relieving pain and making them healthy again. So, what’s the root of the fear? Is it safe? Is it painful? What is the process?
Below, we tackle what really happens in a root canal treatment and why you shouldn’t be afraid of it.
What is a root canal?
First, let’s discuss what a root canal is. A root canal is a part of a tooth – it’s the hollow section of a tooth that contains the nerve tissues, blood vessels, and other cells known as the pulp. The pulp nourishes the tooth and provides moisture around the surrounding area.
When there is a deep cavity or a cracked tooth, bacteria can easily enter the pulp, causing inflammation or infection. When the pulp becomes infected, the tissue dies and can no longer repair itself. Bacteria will destroy the pulp and can penetrate through the root openings.
When this happens, it can cause an infection in the bone. A pulp injury will make the tooth highly sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. Individuals may experience continuous, throbbing pain. Feelings of soreness and swelling gums may also occur.
Treating the root canal is the best option for those who want to eliminate the pain and save their natural tooth.
What is the step by step process of root canal treatment?
Root canal procedure is designed to repair a badly damaged or infected tooth that is causing you discomfort and pain. For the first step of the treatment, the dentist or endodontist cleans and, using local anaesthesia, will make a small opening on the surface of the tooth and disinfect the tooth to resolve any pain. Afterwards, the dentist fills the treated tooth and seals the canals using adhesive cement. The second appointment will generally.
Is a root canal treatment painful?
Certainly, the greatest fear of root canal procedures is the amount of pain involved. Fortunately, there’s no need to worry. A trained dental surgeon will handle the process with adequate knowledge and care. The treatment is relatively painless with a high success rate.
Here at Naenae Dental, we use strong local anaesthesia, so you are as comfortable as possible during treatment. Tenderness after the treatment is normal and temporary. You can take over-the-counter pain medication to relieve the tenderness in the affected tooth.
Who needs a root canal treatment?
Root canal treatments are generally prescribed for those suffering from decaying and badly damaged teeth, as these are prone to bacteria entering the pulp. Without proper treatment, the infection could spread, and the tooth may eventually need extracting. When possible, saving the natural tooth is still the best option and can be done through root canal treatments.
Gain peace of mind on your oral health today
Here at Naenae Dental Clinic, we pride ourselves in providing procedures with little to no pain as well as successful root canal treatments every year. We employ the latest technology to make sure that you experience maximum comfort during the whole procedure. Book an appointment with us today to get a comprehensive consultation, a proper treatment plan, and peace of mind when it comes to your oral health!