Ask anyone to name a dental procedure that they have heard of and a root canal will definitely be mentioned multiple times. This is one of the most popular dental procedures. What’s really interesting is the fact that few people know much about this procedure apart from that it is painful. There is a lot more to a root canal aside from being painful. It can help save a tooth from further damage by addressing the problem causing the damage.
Basically, this procedure involves treating the tooth right at its root. When the nerve within one of your teeth is infected or inflamed, this is the best treatment that can help to prevent loss of the tooth. It also stops the infection from causing further health complications. A tooth with a cavity is one thing, but a tooth with a cavity that has brought about an infection is a totally different thing.
Treating dental infections effectively
The main reason why root canal procedures are very popular is because of their effectiveness in treatment of dental infections. Infected teeth cause discomfort that comes in the form of toothaches and swellings. It can also cause very critical health complications as the bacteria that causes the infection can get into the bloodstream and move to other parts of the body. As such, this treatment is going to address the issue that is causing the toothache and other health issues.
It makes a lot of sense to remove the tooth and then disinfect the area. However, this leaves gaps between the surrounding teeth necessitating a dental implant or a bridge. This is why many people prefer to save their natural teeth by opting for this treatment.
Conducting a root canal
A root canal should only be performed by a trained and experienced endodontic. When performed properly, a root canal could not only be helpful but it is also not as painful as many people assume it to be. It is just like having a cavity filled only a bit more complicated. The whole process involves removal of a dead or infected pulp from the interior of the tooth. Once all the debris has been flashed out, the tooth is then filled and sealed.
It is only painful if the dentist for whatever reason deems it unnecessary to apply a local anesthesia. This does not happen often unless an incompetent endodontic without credible skills to perform a root canal well is treating you. Once the anesthesia wears off, there might be a bit of discomfort, which can be treated by use of common pain killers. You are however, guaranteed that the problem will have been fixed in its entirety if this procedure is performed excellently.
