The only thing scarier than a toothache is your dentist telling you a root canal is needed, right? There’s a lot of misinformation surrounding this common dental procedure, which can make it seem much more intimidating than it actually is. Thanks to the newest dental technology and techniques, root canals are safer, more reliable, and more comfortable than most rumors make them out to be. Read on to find out more about this modern tooth-saving procedure.
Root Canals VS Tooth Extraction
When the inner parts of a tooth become infected, they’re usually very uncomfortable. This discomfort combined with a misunderstanding about root canals is enough to make some people think that pulling the tooth would be better than repairing it. However, tooth extractions are actually much harder on your mouth. Not only do they require a longer recovery time, but you’ll need to replace your missing tooth as well. If you don’t, the surrounding teeth and your overall health could suffer. On the other hand, root canals preserve as much of your natural tooth as possible while protecting your oral health and preventing any further damage.
What to Expect From Root Canal Therapy
The aim of a root canal is to save a tooth from being extracted and stop any damage or infection from spreading to your surrounding teeth. To do this, your dentist will make a small hole in your tooth to access and remove any damaged, decayed, or diseased tissues from the inner layers. Modern anesthesia and sedation dentistry ensure that you experience virtually no discomfort as the pulp and nerve of your tooth is removed.
Once the inside of your tooth has been cleaned and disinfected, it is filled up with a rubbery, biocompatible substance, and the access hole is sealed. Usually, a tooth-shaped restoration called a dental crown is placed over the tooth to strengthen it and protect it from plaque and bacteria. The length of your appointment will depend on several factors, including the variety of anesthesia or sedation used, the amount of work needed, and the health of the surrounding teeth. Typically, you’ll need one appointment for the root canal procedure and then at least one follow-up appointment for the dental crown placement.
Tips for a Fast Recovery
When the numbness from the procedure wears off, it’s normal to experience a little tenderness or sensitivity for a few days. To help your mouth heal, you can:
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen as directed to manage any discomfort.
- Apply an ice pack for 10 minutes at a time to reduce swelling.
- Floss and brush the area carefully to keep it clean as it heals.
So don’t be nervous about seeking treatment for that toothache that just won’t go away. Root canal therapy may be just what you need to start enjoying your happy, healthy smile again!
About the Practice
If you need a root canal in New Bedford, MA, our friendly and experienced team at Clear Coast Dental is here to help you feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible. From the welcoming environment of our office to our state-of-the-art dental technology, we are dedicated to helping you feel completely at-ease while receiving the excellent dental care you need. If you need help with dental pain urgently, don’t hesitate to contact us via our website or (508) 997-1030.
