No one wants to have a root canal, but this conservative dental treatment often gets a bad rap. Root canals are used to repair damaged teeth and prevent the need for extraction. Many people don’t realize that missing teeth can have serious oral health consequences, such as alignment problems, chewing difficulties, and additional tooth loss. With a root canal, your dentist can relieve your pain, protect your smile, and save you money.
What is a root canal?
During this procedure, your dentist will remove diseased tissue, disinfect the area, and seal off the tooth. Your doctor will also place a dental crown to complete the restoration.
Why would I need a root canal?
If your tooth sustains severe trauma or you have deep decay, a root canal maybe the only option to save the tooth. Your teeth contain an inner nerve core called pulp, which provides nutrients and blood supply to the teeth. If that area is injured, the pulp may die, causing infection to build inside a tooth.
Will it hurt?
Advances in dentistry allow your doctor to keep you comfortable during the procedure. The dentist will numb the area before beginning the root canal. If you are particularly concerned, talk with your dentist about sedation options such as nitrous oxide gas or oral sedation. Most people don’t find the procedure any worse than a dental filling.
What if I don’t have a root canal?
The infection inside your tooth won’t disappear without treatment. You risk nerve damage, an abscess, or even tooth loss if you don’t address the problem.
