Wincing at the thought of getting a root canal is normal among those who have never experienced the procedure. There seem to be many misconceptions about root canals — many associate them with pain and spending long hours in the dentist’s chair. The reality is much less scarier.
One way to remove some of the anxiety surrounding a root canal is to learn about what a root canal is, why it’s necessary, and when you might need one can ease a lot of that anxiety. This blog will break down the essentials, so you know exactly what to expect if your dentist suggests a root canal.
What Is a Root Canal?
Let’s start with the basics. A root canal is a dental procedure that’s used to treat an infection or inflammation within the soft inner section of a tooth, known as the pulp. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue that help your tooth grow during development. However, once a tooth is fully matured, the pulp isn’t strictly necessary for the tooth’s survival. This means that if the pulp becomes damaged or infected, it can be removed without compromising the tooth’s function.
During a root canal, the dentist removes the infected or damaged pulp, cleans out the inside of the tooth, and then fills and seals it. This process helps to save the tooth from needing to be extracted and stops the infection from spreading further.
What Causes the Need for a Root Canal?
Now that you know what a root canal is, you might wonder what causes the need for one in the first place. Here are some of the most common reasons:
- Severe Tooth Decay: Left untreated, cavities can penetrate deep into the tooth, reaching the pulp and causing infection or inflammation.
- Cracked or Chipped Teeth: Even a small crack or chip can allow bacteria to enter the pulp, leading to infection over time.
- Repeated Dental Procedures: Teeth undergoing multiple procedures, such as fillings or crowns, can become stressed, leading to pulp damage.
- Injury or Trauma: A blow to the face or mouth can damage a tooth’s pulp, even if there’s no visible damage on the outside.
In all these cases, the result is often the same: bacteria invade the pulp, causing it to become infected or inflamed. If left untreated, this can lead to serious pain and further complications, making a root canal necessary.
When Do You Need a Root Canal?
Since infections and inflammation of the pulp happen within a tooth, it’s hard to gauge when you might need one based purely on looking at your teeth. Yet, there are several signs to note. Persistent toothache is one of the most common signs that you might need a root canal. While toothaches can come and go or be consistent, you’ll know you need a root canal when the pain becomes nearly unbearable. Additionally, if you feel pain in your tooth when chewing or touching the tooth, this could also be a sign that the pulp is inflamed or infected.
Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures is another sign. If you notice that your tooth is especially sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks — and the sensitivity lingers long after the heat or cold is gone — it could be a sign that the pulp is damaged or infected.
While it’s harder to guess if a tooth needs a root canal simply by looking at it, there are a few signs. For example, if the area around the affected tooth is swollen, tender, or has a recurring pimple-like bump, it could indicate an infection that requires a root canal. Also, a tooth that becomes darker in color, especially after an injury, may be a sign that the pulp is dying and a root canal is needed.
Why Is It Important to Get a Root Canal?
You might wonder why you can’t just ignore the problem or wait for the pain to go away. The truth is, if you need a root canal, it’s crucial to get it done sooner rather than later. The longer you wait, the more complicated and costly the treatment can become. Delaying a root canal could result in the need for more extensive dental work or even surgery.
If the infection in the pulp is left untreated, it can spread to other parts of the tooth, the surrounding gums, or even the jawbone. In severe cases, it can lead to an abscess, a painful, pus-filled pocket that forms at the end of the tooth root. A root canal can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. Keeping your natural tooth helps maintain proper chewing function and prevents other teeth from shifting out of place.
Despite what you might have heard, modern root canals are relatively straightforward and no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Plus, the relief from pain and the protection it offers to your dental health are well worth it.
The Root Canal Process: What to Expect
If you’ve been told you need a root canal, understanding the process can help ease your nerves. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can expect:
- Initial Consultation: Your dentist will examine your tooth and take X-rays to assess the extent of the damage. If a root canal is needed, they will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have.
- Local Anesthesia: Before the procedure begins, your dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth with a local anesthetic. This ensures that you won’t feel any pain during the root canal.
- Pulp Removal: The dentist will make a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. They will then remove the infected or damaged pulp using special instruments.
- Cleaning and Shaping: After removing the pulp, the dentist will clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth. The root canals will be shaped to prepare them for filling.
- Filling and Sealing: The cleaned and shaped canals are then filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, a type of natural latex derived from a Malaysian tree of the same name. After the canals are filled, the tooth is sealed to prevent future infection.
- Restoration: In most cases, a tooth that has undergone a root canal will need to be restored with a crown. This helps to protect the tooth and restore its strength and function.
- Aftercare: Your dentist will provide instructions on how to care for your tooth after the root canal. It’s normal to experience some sensitivity or mild discomfort for a few days, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Common Myths About Root Canals
Plenty of myths and misconceptions about root canals can make the procedure seem more daunting than it is. Let’s debunk a few of the most common ones:
- “Root Canals Are Extremely Painful”: Thanks to modern techniques and anesthesia, most people find that getting a root canal is no more uncomfortable than having a cavity filled. In fact, the procedure usually relieves the pain caused by the infected tooth.
- “It’s Better to Pull the Tooth Than Get a Root Canal”: While extraction might seem like an easier option, it’s almost always better to save the natural tooth if possible. Extracting a tooth can lead to other dental issues, such as shifting teeth and bone loss in the jaw.
- “Root Canals Take a Long Time to Heal”: Most people recover from a root canal within a few days. With proper aftercare, you can expect to return to your normal activities shortly after the procedure.
Don’t Hesitate — Schedule a Root Canal Today
A root canal might sound intimidating, but it’s a common and effective procedure that can save your tooth and relieve your pain. Understanding what a root canal is, what causes the need for one, and when you might need one can help you make informed decisions about your dental health.
If you’re experiencing any symptoms that suggest you might need a root canal, don’t hesitate to contact Angola Dental Center and Aegis Dental Group. Schedule an appointment today.