When it comes to dental procedures, there are few that inspire as much dread as the root canal. But what exactly is a root canal, and why do they have such a bad reputation? At Signature Dental Care, we're here to set the record straight and help you understand this often misunderstood procedure.
A root canal is a common dental procedure that's used to repair and save a badly damaged or infected tooth. The procedure involves removing the damaged tissue (also known as the pulp) from the inside of the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting it, then filling and sealing it. This might sound scary, but it's actually a routine procedure that millions of people undergo every year.
Root canals have been around for thousands of years, with evidence dating back to ancient Egypt and China. However, it wasn't until the late 19th century that the procedure was developed into its modern form by an American dentist named Horace Wells. Today, root canals are a standard part of dental care, and they're performed using advanced technology and techniques to ensure patient comfort.
Despite their prevalence, root canals still have a reputation for being painful. But in reality, the procedure is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. In fact, it's often used to relieve pain caused by an infected tooth. So why do they have such a bad rap? Part of the reason is that people often confuse the pain caused by an infected tooth with the pain of the root canal procedure itself.
So how can you tell if you might need a root canal? The most common sign is severe, persistent toothache. This could be throbbing or sharp pain that comes and goes, or it might be constant. Other symptoms include:
These symptoms can indicate that the pulp inside your tooth is infected or damaged. If you're experiencing any of these signs, it's important to see a dentist right away. The sooner you get treatment, the better your chances are of saving your tooth.
A root canal procedure typically takes one to three visits to complete. Here's what you can expect:
The entire procedure is done using advanced technology such as microscopes and digital imaging to ensure precision and accuracy. In most cases, you'll be able to drive yourself home after the procedure, and you should be able to return to your normal activities the next day.
When it comes to root canals, not all dentists are created equal. While many general dentists can perform this procedure, some cases may require the expertise of an endodontist. Endodontists are dental specialists who focus on treating diseases and injuries to the dental pulp.
So how do you know if you need a specialist? In most cases, your regular dentist will be able to perform the root canal. However, if your tooth has complex anatomy or if there are other complicating factors, they may refer you to an endodontist. Some signs that you might need a specialist include:
At Signature Dental Care, our team of experienced dentists is equipped to handle most root canal cases. However, we also have relationships with local endodontic specialists and can refer you to one if needed.
After your root canal procedure, it's normal to feel some tenderness in the area for a few days. This is usually due to inflammation from the infection or the procedure itself. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage any discomfort.
Here are some additional tips for caring for your tooth after a root canal:
In most cases, you'll need to return for a follow-up appointment to have a filling or crown placed on the treated tooth. This is important because a root canal procedure leaves the tooth more susceptible to fracture. A filling or crown helps protect the tooth and restore its function.
The best way to avoid needing a root canal is to take good care of your teeth and gums. This means brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and scheduling regular dental checkups and cleanings.
Here are some additional tips for preventing tooth decay and other conditions that can lead to root canals:
At Signature Dental Care, we're committed to helping our patients maintain healthy smiles for life. That's why we offer comprehensive preventive care services, including oral exams, cleanings, and personalized treatment plans.
A root canal procedure is the best way to save a tooth that has been damaged by decay or injury and preserve your natural smile. The alternative is an extraction and treatment to replace the tooth. While at times a tooth is non-restorable and an extraction is the only option, when possible, it’s best to try and save your natural tooth. With proper care, a tooth with root canal therapy care can serve your smile well for many years to come.
Despite lingering myths from before the age of modern dental anesthesia and technology, having a root canal procedure today is as routine and comfortable as visiting the dentist for a filling. While the procedure is performed under local anesthesia with your tooth completely numbed, we can also discuss options in dental sedation.
Whether the symptoms of a dental infection subside after a course of antibiotics, a draining abscess provides you with some temporary pain relief, or a tooth with radiographic evidence of pathology has not yet developed symptoms, it’s essential, before an infection worsens or occurs, to have a root canal procedure performed. In this way, the tooth can be disinfected, filled, and sealed to protect your health and avoid further problems.
If you have sustained a dental injury, have a toothache, jaw pain, swelling, or are experiencing any other unusual and uncomfortable oral symptoms, contact our office immediately for care. Dental problems that have not been evaluated and treated can significantly worsen, producing more severe damage and consequences for the involved teeth, your oral health, and even your overall wellbeing. Once you get in touch with our office, our friendly and compassionate office team will get you in for care at your earliest convenience.
While some root canal procedures can be completed in one visit, others may involve 2 or 3 appointments. How long it takes depends on various factors, including active infection, the number of canals in the tooth, and the tooth’s location or anatomy.
With a success rate that exceeds 95%, root canal therapy remains the most effective procedure to save a tooth in which the inner vital tissues have been damaged. However, as with all healthcare procedures, there are a small percentage of cases where the teeth become symptomatic a second time. The good news is that many of these teeth can still be saved with root canal retreatment or a minor surgical procedure known as an apicoectomy.
The best ways to maintain a tooth with root canal therapy are to get the proper restoration required to rebuild and protect the tooth, maintain proper oral hygiene, and schedule appointments for routine dental checkups and care.
Saving a tooth with root canal therapy is a wise investment that, in the long run, is typically less costly and invasive than having the tooth extracted and replaced with a fixed bridge or implant. As far as the exact cost of care, it can vary depending on which tooth is being treated. Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for root canal therapy. At the office of Signature Dental Care, we do our best to optimize your dental benefits and minimize your out-of-pocket expenses. Our staff answer all your questions about the cost of care and discuss all your payment options.
At the office of Signature Dental Care, we use the latest technology and most effective methods of care to provide precise and gentle care. Our reputation for excellence is based upon a consistent record of achieving successful treatment outcomes while providing prompt, stress-free, and convenient treatment for every type of dental need.
