What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is an operation to save an unhealthy, damaged or badly decayed tooth. During this procedure, the infected pulp or tissue that fills the tooth cavity is cleaned to prevent further damage to the tooth.
Why is root canal treatment done?
The root canal is the narrow passage where the nerve is located. This area can be painful when infected and can cause serious health problems if left untreated. In most cases, the unhealthy area becomes an abscess over time due to infection. This can cause excruciating pain, forcing the patient to seek treatment.
Can root canal treatment cure every tooth?
Surprisingly, the answer is no. In some cases, an infected or painful tooth that requires treatment may have a calcified nerve or pulp. This happens when the soft tissues in the root canals harden over time. In such a case, it may not be possible to complete the necessary treatment and tooth extraction becomes the only option.
Is root canal treatment painful?
Root canal treatment is no more irritating than a traditional filling. Root canal treatment can help relieve intense pain caused by an infected tooth. The area around the infected tooth is usually numbed during this dental procedure to maximize your discomfort.
How safe is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is effective and safe when primarily performed by a trained and experienced endodontist. Root canal treatment has been practiced for decades, and advances in technology, techniques, pain management and disinfectants mean that this treatment is now more successful and predictable. Root canals aim to preserve natural teeth and prevent re-infection, eliminating the need for tooth extraction.
Is root canal treatment better than tooth extraction?
An infected tooth can cause complications, so immediate treatment is required. While you can replace your extracted tooth with dental implants and bridges, there’s really no substitute for your natural teeth. With root canal treatment, you can preserve your original tooth without the need for extraction. In addition, root canal treatment is cheaper than replacing the lost tooth with a bridge or dental implant after tooth extraction.
Does root canal treatment weaken the tooth?
Removing the dental pulp or interior will preserve the overall structure of your tooth. However, it can be strengthened with dental restorations such as a dental crown or onlay. After root canal treatment is complete, your dentist will recommend the best treatment to restore your tooth’s strength, appearance, and function.
What should I pay attention to after root canal treatment?
When the numbness passes, you will not experience the severe pain you felt before the root canal treatment. You have been relieved by removing the internal nerves and infected tissues. For most people, the treated area may feel tender for several days as the surrounding tissues heal. During the recovery period, you should eat soft foods and use over-the-counter pain relievers.
Don’t Wait for Root Canal Treatment!
If you are worried about your infected or damaged teeth, you should not hesitate to make an appointment with your dentist. Postponing dental treatment can cause greater damage to your oral health. However, when done early enough, root canal treatment is an effective method to stop infection and preserve your natural teeth.