Many patients develop anxiety around dental appointments, especially if they have a more complex procedure to undergo, such as a root canal. It’s natural to feel nervous if you’re unsure what to expect from this treatment, but it’s an incredibly common service that usually helps more than it hurts.
Understanding more about why it’s required and what happens during your visit can potentially help ease your frayed nerves. Continue reading to learn 3 fascinating facts about root canals that you might not already have known!
Fact #1: It Can Prevent an Extraction
If you’re unsure why a root canal is needed, you might wonder whether some other solution might address your dentist’s concerns with your smile. However, this option is usually suggested when you have a damaged or decayed tooth that is too severe for a tooth-colored filling to be effective.
When bacteria in your mouth penetrate your enamel, they can cause a painful infection that can spread to neighboring teeth, your gums, or your jawbone if left unaddressed. Eventually, this can erode your jawbone and contribute to tooth loss. Your dentist uses root canals to clear away infected or injured materials to safeguard your grin in circumstances that might otherwise require extraction and replacement.
Fact #2: It Alleviates Pain
You might dread your scheduled procedure if you’re worried it will be long or agonizing. In the past, root canals developed a reputation for being difficult to withstand, but thanks to more recent advancements in dental technology and techniques, today this treatment usually relieves more aches than it causes.
For example, your dentist will begin by numbing the area to prevent nerves in your teeth, gums, or jaw from sending pain signals to your brain. This can potentially help you remain calm and comfortable throughout your visit.
Fact #3: You Will Likely Need a Dental Crown
Once your troublesome pearly white has been repaired, your provider will likely fit you with a dental crown to restore its appearance and functionality. Historically, these tooth-shaped caps required multiple visits over a period of weeks to complete from start to finish. However, thanks to modern technology, such as digital impressions and same-day CEREC software and milling machines, your dentist can provide a durable dental crown customized to match your natural smile during the same visit. Without this added protection, the underlying tooth is vulnerable to additional damage or infection.
If you still have unanswered questions about your root canal, your dentist can provide accurate information based on your individual circumstances!
About the Practice
At Bell Road Dental Care of Phoenix, you and your loved ones benefit from a team of dentists eager to help you build happy, healthy smiles. Dr. Ferriera, Dr. Jafari, and Dr. Patel collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of services at one location, including root canals and CEREC same-day dental crowns. They take the time to get to know you, then tailor treatments to meet your unique needs. Then, their caring approach combines with state-of-the-art equipment to deliver accurate, comfortable results intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (602) 404-3483.