Have you developed a severe or persistent toothache that requires your dentist’s attention? Although there are many potential causes, more often than not, this type of throbbing is caused by an infection that can be treated with a root canal procedure.
However, many patients worry that this service will cause additional discomfort and avoid scheduling an appointment, which leaves their damaged tooth unprotected. Continue reading to learn 3 facts about root canals that can help you make an informed decision to repair your smile!
Fact #1: It Doesn’t Typically Hurt
This procedure has developed a reputation for being long and agonizing, but thanks to modern advances in dental technology and techniques, that’s not usually the case for patients today.
For example, your provider will provide a local anesthetic to numb the area around the troublesome tooth to prevent the nerves from sending any pain signals to your brain. This helps prevent outright discomfort, though you might still feel changes in pressure while they work. Then, it’s normal to experience some throbbing and swelling afterward, but typically this treatment alleviates more aches than it causes.
Fact #2: It Can Be Required Without a Toothache
One of the main reasons this procedure is recommended is to address severe or persistent throbbing, but having a toothache isn’t required. For instance, if you visited the dentist with discomfort but then it dissipated, you might assume your condition improved and that a root canal is no longer required.
However, nothing could be further from the truth. Most oral issues don’t resolve on their own and instead get progressively worse over time. If your toothache suddenly subsides, it’s more likely that the infection has finally killed the nerves, rendering them incapable of sensing pain. Your tooth must still be treated to keep the disease from spreading to your gum tissues, jawbone, or neighboring teeth.
Fact #3: You’ll Need a Dental Crown Afterwards
Your dentist will likely suggest placing a dental crown after your root canal to protect your recently treated tooth from further harm. These tooth-shaped caps are made from resilient, tooth-colored materials, like porcelain, that can be customized to match the size, tone, and shape of your natural enamel.
That means not only do these restorations protect the underlying tooth from potential damage and decay, but they also restore your pearly white’s appearance and functionality so you can continue using it to eat and speak normally.
If you still have questions or concerns about your upcoming treatment, your dentist can provide more accurate information based on your unique circumstances!
About the Practice
Patients at Capron Park Dental benefit from a team of professionals who are dedicated to helping families in Attleboro build and maintain their happiest, healthiest smiles. Our providers collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services to people of all ages, including root canals, to help improve their smiles. Their caring approach is combined with advanced technology to deliver comfortable, accurate results intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (508) 222-5950.
