Most people who are told to undergo a root canal treatment tend to react negatively since they often associate it with pain. As a result, it is now among the most feared and disregarded procedures by many. However, root canal treatment should never be ignored due to the benefits it offers. So, for patients to no longer misunderstand the treatment, we at Westchase Smiles Institute answered some of the most common questions about it. Continue reading below!
What is a root canal treatment?
The dental procedure is essential in saving a badly decayed or infected tooth from extraction and prevent the issue from affecting the adjacent structures. Since it prevents the removal of the tooth, patients don’t need to spend more by considering a particular teeth replacement option.
What are the signs that may indicate a patient’s need for a root canal treatment?
- Severe pain when chewing or biting
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Swollen or tender gums
- Severe decay or darkening of the gums
- Abscess or a pimple-like formation on the gums
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, even after the sensation has been removed
Take note that patients may not encounter the signs that are listed above. That is why it is essential to see the dentist regularly for them to monitor any irregularities that call for immediate attention.
What processes are involved in root canal treatment?
- Cleaning.Cleaning the root canal is vital for this procedure to get rid of bacteria inside the root canal. Before proceeding, local anesthesia is usually administered by the dentist to numb the tooth. Once the tooth has been numbed, the dentist will then place a small sheet of rubber that isolates the tooth to keep it clean and dry during the entire procedure. A small hole will then be drilled on the chewing surface to remove the damaged and diseased soft tissues.
- Filling. The dentist will clean, shape, and decontaminate the inside of a tooth. Once ready, the tooth will be filled with a rubber-like material and sealed to prevent the further spread of infection.
- Adding a crown or filling. The treated tooth is not as sturdy as before since the pulp inside has been removed. That is why placing a filling or dental crown is essential for its protection. Until the crown or filling is set, the patient should avoid using the treated tooth in chewing or biting too hard.
Is root canal treatment a painful procedure?
There are rumors surrounding root canal treatment that it is a painful procedure. However, that is not true at all. A local anesthetic will be administered to numb the patient’s tooth to help them feel relaxed during the entire process. At our practice, we even offer sedation options for more options that can guarantee a pleasant and favorable treatment.
Aiming to save your teeth from extraction? Contact us to know about Root Canal Treatment in Tampa, FL, or to schedule your appointment with Westchase Smiles Institute! We are located at 9914 W. Linebaugh Ave., Tampa, FL 33626.
