A certain procedure strikes fear into the hearts of dental patients everywhere: root canals! The supposed pain the procedure generates is somewhat legendary.
Thankfully, the truth is much kinder, so you do not have to fear root canals. A root canal is not a torture method but rather a low-key, common procedure used to save teeth.
“Millions of teeth are treated and saved this way [by root canals] each year, relieving pain and making teeth healthy again.”
— American Society of Endodontists
What are Root Canals?
Teeth consist of several layers, including the outer enamel, a hard interior layer of dentin, and then a soft layer of tissue filled with nerves and blood vessels called pulp. Before a tooth fully develops, its pulp helps the tooth’s roots to grow.
A severe cavity or a crack in the tooth can expose the pulp layer to bacteria. The eventual buildup of bacteria leads to a painful infection of the pulp. A root canal procedure is used to rid the tooth of diseased pulp tissue. (Mature teeth can function without the pulp.) This relieves pain and preserves the tooth from further damage.
Root Canals Relieve Pain.
Many patients fear a root canal because they believe it will cause extreme pain and discomfort. This is simply not true. Rather, a root canal will end pain a patient is already experiencing.
Furthermore, the modern technology and anesthetic used by Fisher Pointe Dental go far to minimize any discomfort during the procedure.
Root Canals are Convenient.
Root canals are not unlike getting fillings. This procedure is often done in one sitting, and there is no complicated after-care. Overall, a root canal is a simple and reliable dental treatment option.
Do Root Canals Cause Other Health Issues?
A common misconception is that root canals only lead to infection and expose the body to other health problems. No evidence exists which supports such claims. The irony is that what a root canal treats – a pulp infection – can lead to worsening health and pain if left untreated.
Preventing Worse.
A root canal saves an infected tooth. Passing on a root canal due to fear will only make the problem worse. The tooth infection, if untreated, will lead to tooth loss and other health issues that affect the rest of the body. Eventually, more advanced (and expensive) procedures will be necessary.
If you have questions or if you are in need of a root canal in the Grosse Pointe area, Fisher Pointe Dental can help.