Many people feel nervous about visiting their dentist, especially when they know they need dental work. A root canal has a notorious reputation. But this dental treatment can relieve severe pain in an infected tooth and save a tooth from falling out or sustaining extreme damage.
You can feel more confident about an upcoming root canal when you know more about this procedure. The removal of damaged tooth pulp will restore your oral health. And the process to accomplish this is not as bad as some might imagine. Read on to see responses from your dentist in Cary, NC to frequently asked questions regarding root canal therapy.
Do I Really Need a Root Canal?
When your dentist suggests root canal therapy, you might wonder if this extensive dental procedure is really necessary. A dentist will recommend this treatment when you contract an infection in the pulp of your tooth or suffer from decay that penetrates to your tooth pulp. These issues will damage the blood vessels and nerves in this vulnerable section of the tooth.
If the decay continues unchecked, the tooth could fall out of its socket. And then you will face complications from tooth loss, including deterioration of your jawbone and a high risk of more tooth decay. An untreated oral infection will also advance and put you in danger of medical complications that will affect your entire body.
So do not ignore your dentist’s suggestion of root canal therapy. You will need this treatment to save the look and feel of your smile and prevent further health concerns.
Will a Root Canal Hurt?
Many cases of dental anxiety stem from the anticipation of pain during a dental procedure. You can feel more at ease in your dentist’s chair knowing that your dentist will prioritize your comfort during root canal therapy.
The dentist will give you a local anesthetic to numb the area around the affected tooth. This blocks pain from registering throughout the procedure. You can also receive sedation if you prefer. Consult with your dentist to learn if conscious or unconscious anesthesia will suit your comfort levels and make your dental experience better.
How Long Is the Root Canal Procedure?
The length of your root canal treatment will depend on your unique case, including the severity of your dental damage. But you will likely need more than one appointment with your dentist to fully complete root canal therapy.
Usually, a dentist can finish a root canal, removing the damaged pulp from a tooth, in one 30 to 60-minute session. Larger teeth with more extensive damage might take longer. The dentist will conclude this step by giving you a temporary dental crown to shield the newly vulnerable tooth from further harm.
You will need to return to your dentist to receive your custom-made permanent crown after a few weeks. The crown seals into place and lasts for fifteen years or so, providing high-quality protection. You might feel soreness in your tooth for a day or two after your procedure. But you can manage this discomfort easily at home.