The Basics You Should Know About Root Canal Treatment
Posted on: 28 July 2021
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Root canals are a pretty common dental procedure, and one that most people don't give a second thought until their dentist says they need it. If your dentist has told you that you need a root canal, it's important that you have the treatment as soon as possible. Some people hesitate to have the root canal done out of fear of some of the myths that abound. Here's a look at some of the things that you need to know about root canals before you make a decision.
Root Canals Ease Pain
Especially for those with a fear of the dentist, root canals are a frightening prospect. You may be afraid that the root canal is going to hurt, or that it's going to leave you in pain for a long time afterward. Don't avoid the treatment you need out of these fears. In fact, the purpose of a root canal is to ease the pain in your tooth not to cause pain.
Your dentist will numb the tooth and gums in the affected area before working, so you won't have any significant pain during the procedure itself. Any residual discomfort after the procedure typically goes away in a couple of days, and it will be mild enough to be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers in most cases.
Root Canals Are Not Time-Consuming
For those who are considering a root canal, you may be concerned about how much time you'll have to free up to have it done. Some people mistakenly believe that a root canal requires several extensive appointments. In fact, most root canals are done in one single appointment, or two if necessary. You won't have to worry about too much time lost to these treatments.
Extraction Isn't A Better Option
Some dental patients think that having the problem tooth extracted is a better solution than a root canal. If your dentist has recommended a root canal rather than extraction, that's because the tooth itself is in good enough condition that it can be saved. In those cases, it's in your best interest to have the root canal done instead of the extraction. It's best to preserve the existing tooth whenever possible, even if it needs to be covered with a crown.
These are a few of the things that you need to understand when it comes to root canal treatment. Don't let misinformation keep you from getting the dental care that you need. Talk with your dentist today for more information.