Maintaining a Healthy Mouth: Why is a Root Canal Important?
Let’s be honest, nobody wants to deal with cavities. They are uncomfortable and can lead to complications if they are left untreated. A root canal is often the best course of action to restore your dental health, which is why it’s crucial to understand how this procedure works.
Why Do I Need a Root Canal?
Your dental health is linked to your overall health. If you decide not to treat an infected tooth, you risk the decaying tooth reaching the tooth’s pulp. This can turn into an abscess that can spread into your bloodstream and lead to a life-threatening complication known as sepsis. Scary as this scenario may seem, it’s completely avoidable.
What Is a Root Canal Treatment?
A root canal procedure is when an endodontist removes an infected pulp inside a tooth to prevent an infection from getting worse. You may have never heard of a pulp, it’s the soft tissue inside the tooth containing the nerves and blood vessels.
What To Expect During a Root Canal Procedure?
You can expect to do a dental x-ray so that your dentist can assess the damage to the infected tooth. After reviewing those images, they will be able to determine the extent of the infection.
While many people fear root canals, there is no need to be nervous. Before the root canal treatment, your dentist will numb your gums so that you don’t feel a thing throughout the entire process.
Once you are completely numb, the dentist will create a small opening in the infected tooth to access the pulp chamber. They will clean the infection and repair any damage that has occurred.
What Happens After a Root Canal Treatment?
Once the root canal procedure is all over and done with, you will experience mild discomfort for a few days. Your endodontist may prescribe pain medications to help with the pain. If they do not, then you can still use over-the-counter medication to help with the discomfort.
Also, to prevent future cavities, stay on top of your oral health. Brush and floss your teeth twice a day, and visit your dentist for cleanings twice a year. A healthy smile creates a healthier you, inside and out.
Discover Top-Notch Dental Care at Pearly Whites Dental Care!
Don’t let dental anxiety stop you from going to the dentist. Whether we’re performing a cleaning or root canal, Pearly Whites Dental Care is your one-stop shop for a healthy smile. Our team has the expertise to tackle even the most complex cases and will exclusively focus on ensuring you receive optimal long-term results.
Contact our office for a root canal consultation today.