People already have a pre-existing fear of visiting the dentist – even for their annual check-ups. Their fear probably stems from the idea that the dentist may discover a problem and then utters the words ‘root canal’.
Root canals have a reputation amongst potential patients for being invasive, painful, and scary. On the contrary, it’s a simple procedure that dentists or endodontists recommend for treating damaged teeth caused by abscesses, cavities, or trauma from previous treatment.
If it’s such a straightforward procedure, why do people shudder at the thought of having a root canal? Every dental treatment sounds painful and scary, and when you consider that a root canal deals with the dentisnerve of the tooth, it’s easy to understand the fear. However, this procedure helps to save your tooth and protects it from further damage. Instead of psyching yourself out of the treatment before it commences, read on to discover the reasons you shouldn’t fear a root canal.
1. It’s a Simple Procedure
There’s nothing complicated about a root canal, and it begins with the application of a local anesthetic to numb your mouth alongside a rubber dental dam which prevents the infected tooth from getting wet. You won’t feel the drilling of a small hole in the tooth to reach the pulp at the core. A suction tool drains the bacteria and infected pulp, after which a ‘gutta percha’ replaces the pulp to prepare for the filing or permanent crown. This will strengthen the tooth and prevent further deterioration.
2. A Root Canal is Similar to Getting a Filling
When you consider the process as a whole, it consists of two parts – the initial cleaning of the bacteria and the placement of a filling or crown. Inserting a filling allows the tooth to perform as usual, and its appearance won’t be affected. The filler restores the tooth to health and prevents further bacterial infection.
3. Usually Requires a Single Appointment
People live in constant fear of dental procedures so imagine having to do it multiple times. Root canals only require a few hours to complete, which you can do in a single visit. Unless the case is severe, there’s no need for recovery after removing the infected pulp.
4. Root Canals Shouldn’t Hurt
Historically, root canals have a reputation for being a painful procedure. However, with the technological developments in dentistry, this isn’t the case any longer. You won’t feel more than a slight prick to administer the anesthetic. After that, you won’t have any feeling around your mouth, making the process painless. Once the numbing wears off, take painkillers to deal with the discomfort.
5. A Root Canal Will Save Your Tooth
Instead of a tooth extraction, which could become problematic if you’ve had several removed, a root canal allows you to use them as usual. You don’t have to compromise your million-dollar smile since root canals have a lifetime success rate of 85 percent.
Related Resources: 5 Ways a Root Canal Affects Your Tooth Longevity
6. Root Canals Aren’t Expensive
Dental procedures have a reputation for being expensive which prevents many people from addressing their dental needs. Root canals, however, are not as expensive as other dental procedures such as extractions and implants. Furthermore, addressing the problem early increases the possibility of saving the tooth and restoring it with a filling. The majority of dental insurance plans cover the procedure.
Related Resources: Six Reasons Neglecting a Toothache May Cost You More Money and Pain
7. A Root Canal Can Prevent Other Infections
A tooth infection can spread to other parts of your mouth, especially when oral bacteria enter the gums or bloodstream. It can lead to an illness called sepsis which is detrimental to your overall health. For this reason, you shouldn’t be afraid of trusting a dentist with your root canal.
Contact The Endo House today for a free consultation!
Testimonial from Kayra, A patient of The Endo House, Huntington Beach.
My grandpa went to a general office to have a root canal procedure done, already having been in pain for the past month doctors were unable to continue with his procedure. He needed to be referred to a specialist, upon research I came across Dr.Nour. His reviews made him seem like a trustworthy choice. I’m glad to say that the experience with Dr. Nour and his office was AMAZING! They were very attentive to his needs and concerns at all times. They were able to go through with the procedure. A week later and my grandpa is no longer experiencing pain and is very thankful for Dr. Nour and his work. I will recommend him to anyone in need of an Endodontist.
