Root Canal Procedure
Statesville, NC
When most dental patients hear the words root canal, they are struck with fear and anxiety. While the idea of getting a root canal can be scary, the process is not as bad as it seems. It can be an essential treatment that saves a tooth from needing to be extracted. It can also protect your overall health as well. At Fern Creek Dentistry, we are here to help you understand the process of getting a root canal and provide you with the treatment that you need.
Why Was I Recommended a Root Canal?
A root canal is recommended when a tooth develops an infection. An infection happens when bacteria gets inside of a tooth. Once an infection is there, it will not go away on its own. It only gets worse the longer it goes untreated. If you have developed a painful toothache, notice swelling in your jaw, or develop a chronic bad taste in your mouth, these could all be signs of an infection, and an appointment should be scheduled as soon as possible.
I Thought a Root Canal was Painful?
Long ago, this may have been the case, but not today. State of the art tools and the latest treatment protocols have made root canals much more comfortable. Before undergoing treatment, a local anesthetic is provided to numb the tooth as well as the surrounding area. You will not feel any pain during the procedure. You may have some lingering pain following your root canal once the anesthetic has worn off, but this discomfort can generally be managed with an over the counter pain reliever and is only temporary.
Is it Better to Have the Tooth Extracted?
No, it is not better to have your tooth extracted. In many cases, extractions cause more trauma and discomfort. In addition to unnecessary pain, you then have to worry about the additional costs and appointments required to replace the tooth. With a root canal, you get to keep your natural tooth.
Will I Need Several Appointments?
The actual root canal itself only requires one appointment. You will require a few additional follow up appointments, which are performed to make sure that you are healing properly, the treatment was successful, and to provide a permanent restoration such as a filling or crown on the tooth. Typically, only two to three follow-ups are necessary, but the exact number of appointments you need will vary based on your specific situation.
Does a Root Canal Kill My Tooth?
A root canal does not kill your tooth. The goal of the treatment is to remove any decay and the bacteria from the interior of your tooth. The infected tissue is removed. The tooth is thoroughly cleaned, not killed.
Can a Root Canal Cause Illnesses?
There is a myth that root canals cause illnesses to develop. A root canal helps to prevent illnesses. By removing the infection from your tooth, we help to prevent the spread of bacteria into your bloodstream, which can help to prevent serious health issues from developing.
A root canal is a common, highly effective treatment for preserving a tooth affected by an infection. For more information, call Fern Creek Dentistry at (704) 380-9555 today.
|
