When most people think of having a root canal procedure done, their head is generally swimming with lots of information, most of which is false. The popular opinion is that it is a painful procedure to have done, with a lengthy recovery time and should be used as a last resort, with a better alternative being having the tooth removed. The truth is that it is a very safe and pain-free procedure that is always preferred over tooth extraction; nothing can take the place of your natural tooth.
What exactly is it?
The root canal is the hollow chamber in the center of the tooth that contains both the tooth’s nerve as well as the pulp. The procedure is performed when the tooth is badly decayed or damaged and has become infected, and involves the removal of the nerve and the infected pulp, with the tooth then being cleaned and sealed. A crown is then put on to completely restore the tooth’s natural appearance. Most of these last a lifetime.
Is it painful?
This surgery does not cause pain; it relieves pain. The pain you feel is caused by the infection that the surgery gets rid of. The procedure itself is painless, with the patient only feeling slight pressure.
More Advice
The best way to ensure a tooth does not become a major problem is to schedule regular check-ups with your dentist. That way any issues can be caught early and fixed. If additional does become necessary, the worst thing to do is delay. Other than being painful, you run the risk of the infection spreading to the surrounding gums.
This procedure keeps the mouth free of pain and infection, and save teeth from having to be removed.
Sources:
Root Canals Explained, American Association of Endodotists
Myths About Root Canals and Root Canal Pain, American Association of Endodotists
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