Needing a root canal can be a scary prospect for many patients, especially if they’ve never had one before. Between the internet horror stories and the overdone Hollywood tropes, often people are afraid of the procedure being painful or taking forever to complete. The good news is that because your dentist numbs your mouth first, root canals are completely painless. In fact, most patients are pleased to report that they feel better, not worse, after treatment. But don’t wait too long. Here’s why it’s so important to eliminate that infection as soon as possible!
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental treatment that removes infected pulp and keeps the tooth safe and usable. First, your dentist will numb the area. Then, they will open the tooth and remove the damaged nerves. Once it’s cleaned out, they will replace it with synthetic pulp that is designed to preserve the structure and prevent new infections from forming. Finally, it will be closed back up with either a filling or a dental crown, so you can continue using it to eat a full diet.
The Dangers of Dental Infections
While a tooth infection may seem like it’s centralized to just one tooth, unfortunately, much like any other kind of infection, it can spread. At first, it may only affect nearby teeth, resulting in the need for multiple root canals. With time, however, it may become so bad that the only solution is a complete extraction or extractions. Worse yet, the infection can spread throughout the entire body, and in rare cases can even be fatal.
Root Canal Alternatives
Often, patients will ask their dentist if there is any other treatment available. Unfortunately, aside from extracting the tooth, a root canal is usually the most effective option. It also allows you to keep your natural tooth, so you needn’t worry about having to replace it later. As for whether you can treat a dental infection with antibiotics, this is also not possible. You see; to work, antibiotics must travel through the bloodstream to the site of an infection. However, because the bloodstream cannot reach the inside of a tooth, it’s impossible for antibiotics to do anything to help cure this type of infection.
The Benefits of a Root Canal
The great news is that in addition to being completely comfortable, root canal treatments allow you to save your damaged tooth for years to come. In fact, most patients enjoy full chewing capabilities, and very rarely require retreatment.
Remember, although it may seem scary at first, root canals are nothing to be afraid of! In fact, if you qualify, consider yourself lucky that your tooth can be saved and that relief from your toothache could be just a safe, effective, and painless procedure away!
About Our Practice
At Capron Park Dental, our caring and capable dental team wants to help you get the relief you need with the help of a root canal. If you have a painful tooth infection or cracked tooth, don’t let fear stop you from saving your smile. Schedule a consultation for a root canal with us today by visiting our website or calling 508-222-5950.
