It’s a shame that root canals get a bad reputation since they are meant to be the answer to your pain, not the cause of it. That’s why your dentist wanted to clear up a few misconceptions root canals have carried over the years, as well as explain the process for patients who have root canals planned. Once you read this post from your dentist in Waco, you’ll be more than prepared to attend your treatment with confidence.
What is Causing My Tooth Pain?
Inside your tooth lies a few components you should know about. They include a nerve known as the pulp, which runs through the root canal. When decay or bacteria reaches the nerve, it can become infected. This is most likely what is causing pain in your tooth. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may need root canal therapy to treat a possible infection. They include:
- Tooth pain or sensitivity
- Tenderness
- Tooth discoloration
- Lymph node swelling, tenderness, or drainage
Don’t Root Canals Hurt?
Contrary to popular belief, the pain associated with root canals does not occur during the actual treatment. It’s more likely the post-op symptoms that appear or the pain associated with an infected tooth that people are actually thinking of when they hear the phrase “root canal.” It’s unfortunate because root canal therapy is meant to reduce the pain associated with an infected pulp, not cause it.
Additionally, avoiding root canal therapy isn’t going to make things any better. Infections can easily spread once they’ve already started forming. That puts your gums and remaining teeth at risk of becoming infected as well.
Think of it this way. Your dentist says that you need a root canal, which means, at this point in time, you don’t need a tooth extraction. Root canals are meant to restore your remaining tooth and help you keep it, whereas an extraction would eventually lead to needing a dental implant later. Instead of paying for an extraction and eventually a dental implant, it’s far more proactive to get the root canal you need now.
What is Root Canal Therapy in Waco Like?
First, your dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the tooth in question. This should sufficiently dispel the myth that root canals hurt during treatment. While there might be some discomfort at first, it won’t last.
Then, your dentist will drill a tiny hole through the top of your tooth, so he can access the inside. Once inside, he’ll clear away any decay and diseased pulp, followed by irrigating it to wash away remaining bacteria. Next, your dentist will fill the area with a rubber-like material known as gutta percha. After closing the area, he’ll produce a permanent crown for you, so you can protect the area from future infections.
Don’t fear root canals, fear the consequences of not having one done when you need it. Get your oral health back on track by scheduling a visit with your dentist in Waco today!
About the Author
Dr. Rick Cofer earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Baylor School of Dentistry. He performs hundreds of root canals every year, so you can trust his skills and experience. To learn more about the treatment or his practice, contact him at (254) 732-0309 or visit his website.