Root canal therapy is not painful or traumatic — it’s actually not that different from getting a filling for a cavity in terms of the pain and discomfort you can expect. At Dental Town DC, our dentists offer gentle and compassionate care for your oral health care needs.
Misconceptions About Root Canal Therapy
The biggest misconception about a root canal is that it’s a really painful procedure. The next misconception: that it’s better to have a damaged tooth extracted than to get a root canal. According to the American Association of Endodontists, removing a natural tooth should always be a last resort. Missing teeth can lead to additional oral health problems like bone loss and affect the surrounding teeth.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Every tooth has an internal network of blood vessels, nerves, and soft tissue known as pulp. When bacteria gets inside a tooth due to an injury or severe tooth decay, it can lead to inflammation and infection. Signs you may need a root canal include pain (especially when chewing), ongoing sensitivity to hot and cold, red and swollen gums around the tooth, or a brown or dark spot on the tooth.
How the Procedure Works
The dentist will apply a topical anesthetic to numb the area, then drill a small hole in the tooth and remove the damaged pulp tissue and bacteria. Once the canal has been cleaned out, the dentist will fill and seal the tooth. A typical appointment takes about an hour to 90 minutes. Depending on the extent of the damage, an additional restoration like a dental crown may be necessary to complete the procedure. Don’t let fear and misconceptions keep you from getting the dental care you need. Contact Dental Town DC today to schedule an appointment.