Contrary to a host of misconceptions, root canals are safe, routine, and practically painless procedures in modern dentistry. While some people believe they should be avoided at all costs and only used as a last resort when pain becomes too severe, the truth is that they can save teeth from extraction and get your smile back to looking and feeling its best. Here are some reasons why root canals are nothing to fear.
Why Would I Need a Root Canal?
If you need a root canal, it is likely that a cavity has gone untreated for a long time and bacteria has colonized the inside of the tooth. This situation leads to moderate or severe pain and can lead to secondary infections if it is ignored. A root canal can end this discomfort by eliminating the infection.
Should I Be Worried About a Root Canal?
Modern root canals cause no more discomfort than having a cavity filled. No reputable scientific studies show that these procedures lead to any illnesses. Root canals are favorable over tooth extraction because they allow patients to keep their natural teeth while still eliminating risks of infection.
Every year, dentists perform millions of root canals. It is exceedingly rare for complications to arise from these treatments, and they have a high lifetime success rate. Simply by having so much practice, your dentist can be trusted to know the procedure inside and out. In fact, you can expect to get back to business as usual the day after receiving one.
How Does a Root Canal Work?
Your tooth has three layers including the outside layer of enamel, which is the hardest substance in your body, then the middle layer of dentin, and then the pulp in the center. Once the tooth is fully developed, the pulp is not necessary to its health, but it can become infected.
To save an infected tooth and prevent the surrounding bone from decay, a root canal is designed to remove damaged pulp tissue. The inside of the tooth is then sanitized and the breach is sealed, keeping the tooth safe from further infection. A crown is placed upon the tooth to prevent infection afterward. Local anesthetics keep the operating area completely numb, so the procedure involves minimal discomfort. Any pain lingering after the procedure can be treated with over-the-counter medication. After this, there should be no further issue from the infection.
Root canals are nothing to worry about. Dentists have performed them for a very long time and they have only gotten better and more efficient over the decades. These days, a root canal in a single appointment can take you from nursing a miserable toothache to walking away with a smile and a bounce in your step.
About the Author
Dr. George A. Hoop graduated second in his class upon earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the Emory University School of Dentistry. He then expanded his dental abilities by completing a periodontal specialty residence at the same school. His practice provides services such as preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry including root canals. If you’d like to learn more about why root canals are safe and sound procedures, contact his office online or dial (239) 939-7299.