Root canals are often frightening because they are usually associated with pain. While there may be discomfort, it’s a perfectly safe procedure that is generally very low-risk.
Here are six reasons why you don’t need to fear root canals.
1. Long-Term Pain Relief
Root canals are a solution to pain, not the cause. The procedure will remove infected tissues and pulps inside the tooth. This will alleviate pain from severe infection and save your tooth. It’s also critical to note that the treatment is relatively painless now because of modern advances in dentistry. Dentists use local anesthesia to ensure you don’t feel any pain during the treatment.
2. Swift Procedure
Most root canals only take one or two appointments. During the first appointment, your dentist will remove the infected tissue and clean the inside of the tooth. They will then place a temporary filling to protect the tooth. At the second appointment, your dentist will remove the temporary filling and place a permanent filling or crown to restore the tooth’s function and appearance.
3. Safe and Effective
The procedure has a very high success rate. In fact, over 95% of root canals are successful in the first year. This is because they are the best option for recovering a tooth from extraction. When an infected tooth is left untreated, the infection can spread, leading to more complications. This way, root canals can prevent the infection from wreaking havoc in your mouth.
4. Faster Recovery Period
Recovery after a root canal is quite speedy. After the procedure, you might experience some mild discomfort or swelling for a day or two. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage this irritation. The minimum inconvenience means you’ll return to your daily activities in no time. You can also enjoy your favorite meals without any restrictions.
5. Affordable Treatment Option
The cost of a root canal will not burn a hole in your wallet. Root canals are a cost-effective option when considering the long-term benefits and the preservation of your natural tooth. Compared to the alternative of extracting the tooth and then needing a replacement like a dental implant or bridge, a root canal often proves to be the more budget-friendly choice.
6. Advancement in Dental Technology
Advances in dental technology have made root canals even more effective and less painful. For example, dentists now use specialized microscopes and thin, flexible instruments to precisely clean and shape root canals. This helps remove the infected tissue and seal the canals properly. In addition, dentists can use advanced imaging tools, like cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans, to get a better view of the root canal system. This helps identify complex anatomy or blockages to help plan the procedure.
Unlock a brighter smile today with Justin Garner Dentistry! From root canal treatments to a full spectrum of dental services, our expert team is here for your oral health. Contact us to book an appointment!