Root canals have the power to instill fear into the strongest among us. We’ve all heard horror stories about how horrible they are, but Dr. Robert Gauthier wants to assure you that root canals aren’t as scary as they seem. Learn about root canals, why there’s no reason to be afraid of them, and how to prevent needing a root canal procedure.
When is a Root Canal Necessary?
Root canal treatments, commonly referred to simply as a “root canal,” is necessary when a tooth’s internal tissues, called the pulp, gets infected. This can be caused by deep cavities or a chip or crack in the surface of the tooth. This infection can spread down through the root canals of the teeth and form an abscess in gum tissue, which is a serious and painful condition that can be dangerous to your overall health.
You may need a root canal procedure if you have a tooth that’s very sensitive to hot and cold, sensitivity to touch or chewing, or inflamed and sensitive gums around one tooth. Some dentists will perform the root canal procedure to fix the problem, or you may be referred to an endodontist. An endodontist is a dental specialist who treats the insides of the teeth and may have a different approach.
Root Canal Procedure
The treatment itself sounds scary, but it really isn’t! First, your dentist will numb the area to ensure you can’t feel any pain during the procedure. Then, your dentist or endodontist will drill down into the crown of the infected tooth and remove the infected pulp from inside the tooth and root canals. As adults, our teeth no longer require the pulp, as teeth can still get nourished by surrounding tissues.
Once the pulp is removed, if the infection spread very deep into the tooth, a tiny metal rod may need to be inserted into the root to hold the tooth in place in your gums. After that, a crown is created and placed over the compromised tooth. Your dentist will create the crown to match the natural hue of your teeth, which will seal the tooth against foreign bacteria and future deterioration.
Good As New!
Within a few days, the swelling will go down and your tooth will be as good as new! Many people avoid root canals or are afraid of them because they think it’s a painful procedure, but thanks to modern technology, the procedure feels similar to having a filling placed.
Root canals are helpful procedures that restore your smile and help you chew pain-free. Make sure you’re scheduling regular appointments with Russell Street Dental Associates to keep your smile healthy. Schedule online or call (508) 297-6270 today!