4 Root Canal Facts That Might Put Your Mind at Ease

When it comes to dental procedures, you may have heard countless stories that make you want to avoid a certain treatment at all costs. If your dentist told you that they recommend a root canal, then you may have had a shiver travel down your spine. Thankfully, this is a simple service that has become easier over the years! To help make you feel more at ease, here are four facts about a root canal that prove it’s nothing to worry about.

1.)  Typically, Root Canals Aren’t Painful

Many people immediately associate this treatment with causing more pain than relieving any. The truth is that modern dental techniques and powerful anesthesia have made the entire process more comfortable than ever before! You are thoroughly numbed with a local anesthetic before the procedure starts, so you shouldn’t feel severe discomfort. In fact, most people compare it to getting a routine filling.

2.)  Your Tooth Can Be Saved with a Root Canal

Saving your natural teeth is always what your dentist wants to do. There are high-quality restorations out there that can mimic them, but they don’t truly match up to the strength and reliability of your home-grown pearly whites.

A root canal is meant to get rid of the infection inside a tooth, and if you do not properly treat it, then you risk losing your tooth. This can cause a myriad of other complications, like your other teeth shifting to fill that gap or leaving you at a higher risk of gum disease.

3.)  You May Need a Root Canal Despite No Discomfort

In some cases, your dentist may have recommended a root canal even if your tooth isn’t hurting. However, pain isn’t the only reason that you’d need this treatment. You may have had a toothache that went away, and thought that was the end, but the infection is still inside your tooth.

The bacteria may have attacked the nerve and damaged it so that it cannot transmit any signals. You may also have other symptoms associated with an infected tooth, like sensitivity to hot or cold items and tender gums.

4.)  A Dental Crown Is Needed Afterward

Once the inner pulp is removed, your dentist places a permanent filling in your tooth to close the gaps between the root canal walls. This is only one part of the fix, as you will need a dental crown to fully reinforce your tooth! It is made from a high-quality material that can last decades with proper maintenance. This restoration gives you back the aesthetics of your smile and strengthens your bite force!

If you have an infected tooth and your dentist recommends a root canal, you don’t have to be stressed about it! Remember that your provider has the best for your oral health in mind. These facts may help you feel more confident undergoing the procedure, so you can have a pain-free smile!

About the Practice

At West Hartford Dental Group, you benefit from a skilled team of dentists who are dedicated to making you comfortable during any treatment, including a root canal. Despite its dubious reputation, we ensure that it helps relieve your toothache as quickly and effectively as possible. If one of your pearly whites is hurting, schedule an appointment or call our West Hartford location at (860) 236-4249.