While many people think that having a root canal procedure done is a very painful thing to go through, the truth is that root canal treatment doesn’t cause pain; it relieves it! The days of painful root canals are long gone as today’s modern root canal procedures make use of advanced dentistry techniques and state-of-the art technology. Most patients feel little (if any) pain during a root canal procedure. In fact, the root canal process most often begins the same way a filling does and with no greater discomfort. An anesthetic is administered to numb the tooth and the surrounding area. For most patients, the worst is already over by this point!
The most common reason for a dentist to recommend a root canal is when a cavity has become large enough to compromise the health of the tooth. Other reasons include cracks or breakage of the tooth and infection. When a tooth becomes badly decayed, the pulp tissue inside the tooth is affected. This pulp tissue is made up of blood vessels, connective tissue and nerves, which explains why a problem in the pulp often causes intense pain. Over time, the pain may subside at least temporarily but without treatment the infection will remain. This infection can lead to more long-term pain and a possible abscess, which can result in the tooth needing to be extracted.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental treatment that involves removing infected and inflamed nerve tissue or pulp from the root of the tooth. Once the procedure is completed and the healing process is done, the tooth is restored with a crown or tooth replica so that it continues to function as a normal, healthy tooth.
In nearly every case involving a root canal, the patient is very relieved to have the procedure done as the constant pain they’ve experienced is completely alleviated. Anyone who has ever had an infected tooth or an abscess can attest to the fact that an infected or inflamed tooth can be extremely painful and very difficult to endure.
If you have been experiencing intense tooth pain, don’t put off seeing a dentist. A root canal procedure can be your best friend as it will get rid of the pain you’re feeling. While many people use the age-old comedy line “I’d rather have a root canal than…,” putting off a root canal is no laughing matter.
How to Know If You May Need a Root Canal
Sometimes it is painfully obvious that you need a root canal. If you are experience severe, constant pain and pressure in your mouth, have swelling and extreme sensitivity in your gums, you should call our Green Bay family dentistry practice right away. Other symptoms which may indicate you need to have a root canal done include feeling a sharp pain when biting down on food or if you have sensitivity to hot and cold foods.
The doctors and staff at Oral Health Associates strive to make each of our patients feel comfortable while in our warm and welcoming office environment. If you would like to schedule an appointment with us, please call (920) 437-3376 to set up an appointment time. We look forward to seeing you soon!