Almost all humans share that common fear- the dentist chair. Drill, needle, scalpel would fill many of one’s minds with fearful thoughts. But how do you diagnose that signal your teeth are sending you? Perhaps, that incessant toothache has something serious quite like a root canal?
As painful, knowing the signs and catching the problem early could save you much agony and a host of complications later in your life. So, let’s just forget all those worries and talk about something that hardly anybody discusses, but that could be really important: Root Canal Treatment.
This blog is going to engage in root canals as a complete guide, why they may be necessary, and what the entire process even entails in some detail. So buckle in and get ready to learn more about this necessary dental procedure.
What is Root Canal Treatment?
When we think of Root Canal Treatment, we imagine agonizing pains and terrible discomfort. Truth be told, a root canal is not as horrifying at the end. The procedure consists of surgical removal of the damaged portions within the tooth, including the root, hence the name.
Decay or injury causes the pulp, or tissue inside the tooth when left untreated, to inflame and become infected. Otherwise, it may cause extremely severe pain followed by tooth loss. That’s when you need root canal treatment. It treats the decayed or infected tooth by taking the pulp, then disinfects the inside of the tooth, takes up that space, and finally seals it.
This is done by a doctor known as an endodontist. It is a regular procedure; and unlike what most people believe, it is not more painful than having a simple fill in a tooth.
What are the Signs?
If we have established that a root canal exists, how can one identify the necessity thereof? Different cases of clear indicators exist, and not everyone manifests all of them; however, even relatively few signs could equal a dentist visit.
- Intense pain while chewing or applying pressure on a tooth.
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold temperature, even after removing the stimulator.
- Small, pimple-like bump at gumline in proximity to the area where the pain of tooth is felt.
- Dark or discolored tooth.
- Swelling and tenderness of the adjoining gums.
Though some of the symptoms may also point to other oral health problems, the best course of action is to see a dentist at the earliest possible juncture.
Necessity of Root Canal Treatment
Suppose you have a splinter deep down inside your finger. You are able to do most things, but daily tasks become impossible because of the pain associated with it. The same goes for your decayed or infected tooth. That relentless throbbing and ache changes your whole way of life–eating, drinking, and even sleeping.
This, however, is usually not the case. If untreated, a tooth becomes decayed over time; this can lead to the most serious complications, such as severe toothaches, loss of bone mass, drainage issues, and abscesses. Root canal treatment alleviates such symptoms and saves the tooth from being pulled out.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Root Canal Treatment
Like any dental procedure, root canal has advantages and disadvantages. Its positive points are saving a badly injured tooth that needed an extraction and holding natural tooth structure intact for a longer period. The negative points are, very rarely, that all the infected tooth might not be removed; thus, treatment failure and reinfection might take place. Also worth noting are the costs involved. Depending on your location and the dental insurance you have, the procedure can cost a lot.
The Process of Root Canal Treatment
There are several steps to root canal treatment; these not only happen within one visit to the endodontist, but can occur over several months. The X-ray is taken first to identify the level of decay. The infected pulp is removed; the remaining space is disinfected, filled, and sealed. Often, the tooth is capped with a crown to confer additional protection and help the tooth function like a typical tooth.
Conclusion
So, next time a little tooth pain rears its ugly head, don’t brush it off as just another pain. Take notice of any long-standing symptoms and consult your dentist, if necessary. Although a root canal treatment may seem overwhelming, it is usually the best way to preserve your dental health and quality of life. Knowledge is the most powerful tool, they say. You will be ready with this extensive guide at your disposal to take an informed decision regarding your oral health. As the saying goes, it’s better for you to go through a moment’s pain than a whole life of dental complexities.
