For some patients, just hearing the words “root canal” is enough to make a knot form in their stomach—but the truth is, this common dental procedure is one of the best ways to relieve pain and save your natural tooth! Better yet, modern dentistry has made root canal treatment faster, safer, and more comfortable than ever before. Continue reading to learn a little more about root canals, why they’re sometimes needed, and why you have no reason to regret moving forward with the procedure if your dentist has suggested it.
Why You Might Need a Root Canal
A root canal is usually needed when the soft tissue inside of your tooth, called the pulp, becomes inflamed or infected. This can happen for several reasons, including:
- Severe decay has reached the inner layers of the tooth
- A cracked or chipped tooth has allowed bacteria to enter
- Physical injury or trauma has damaged the tooth pulp
If you’re experiencing severe or persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks that seems to linger, or swollen, tender gums, you shouldn’t wait to let your dentist know. A root canal might be needed to halt the infection and allow you to keep your tooth!
Why You Won’t Regret Getting a Root Canal
Despite its reputation, root canal therapy isn’t harmful at all—it actually addresses the source of your pain. Plus, most patients agree that the procedure itself is very comparable to getting a dental filling and are impressed by how fast and straightforward it is. After numbing the area, your dentist gently removes the infected tissue, cleans the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent further infection. A crown is usually placed on top afterward to strengthen and protect the tooth moving forward.
Once the infection is gone, you can expect your pain to disappear as well. Beyond that, root canals offer other benefits, including:
- You get to keep your natural tooth, which is better than having to have it extracted and replaced.
- You’ll be able to bite and chew your food without pain or difficulty.
- It prevents the infection from spreading to nearby teeth.
- Dental crowns are designed to look, feel, and function just like your original teeth!
The bottom line is, if you’re dealing with tooth pain and suspect you need a root canal, don’t wait—the sooner the treatment is performed, the sooner you can begin enjoying a happy, healthy, and pain-free smile once more!
About the Practice
Our team here at Worcester Dental Arts serves the dental needs of families in Worcester and the surrounding communities. We offer a wide range of services, including root canal treatment as well as same-day emergency appointments for patients with urgent needs. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with our team to schedule an appointment for yourself or a family member, please reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (508) 793-2114.
