If you’ve recently gone to the dentist for a severe toothache, they might’ve informed you that you’re going to need to undergo root canal therapy. You’ve probably heard some pretty frightening things about root canals – but despite their reputation, they aren’t something you should fear at all. Continue reading below to learn a little more about root canals and why getting one is a good thing for your smile’s future!
What Exactly Is a Root Canal?
Also sometimes referred to as endodontic therapy, a root canal is a procedure that’s designed to treat a tooth that has suffered severe damage or decay to its innermost part, known as the pulp chamber. The inner portion of the tooth contains blood vessels and nerves, as well as connective tissues. A cavity that reaches only into the enamel will not cause pain, so if the nerve endings are involved, the damage has most likely reached the inside of the tooth. The only way to ensure that the tooth can stay in place in the jaw and continue to function properly is with a root canal.
What Does the Root Canal Process Look Like?
A root canal normally involves the following steps:
- A local anesthetic is used to numb the tooth and surrounding area. Sedation dentistry can also be used to ensure patient comfort and compliance.
- A small opening is made in the tooth to access its pulp; from there, the damaged/decayed portions are carefully removed.
- The inner portion of the tooth is sanitized before it’s filled with a biocompatible substance to help the tooth retain its structure.
- The tooth is finally finished off with a dental crown to protect it from further harm and ensure it remains a healthy part of your smile.
Benefits of Getting a Root Canal
Root canals are often unfairly portrayed in movies and television, but the truth is, most patients agree that they hardly hurt at all and feel quite similar to receiving a dental filling. Better yet, the treatment comes with many other benefits, such as:
- The tooth gets to remain inside the mouth, which is preferable to having to replace it.
- Root canals address the source of tooth pain, rather than masking it and treating the symptoms.
- Removing the infected tissue from the tooth ensures that other teeth aren’t at risk of the same issue.
- In many cases, it’s more cost-effective to undergo root canal therapy than tooth extraction and replacement.
Remember, root canals are designed to relieve tooth pain – not cause it! Plus, they ensure that you’re able to keep that tooth for the foreseeable future. With that in mind, you can trust that your dentist is making the right call.
About the Practice
The team at Carlson Dental Group has proudly served patients and families in Jacksonville and the surrounding area for several years, offering a wide range of services including emergency dentistry as well as root canal therapy. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with the practice to schedule an appointment, please reach out online or call today for more information. Telephone: (904) 262-8409.