Root canal therapy is a common dental procedure used to treat infected or damaged teeth. Despite its reputation, root canal therapy is a safe and effective way to save a damaged tooth and relieve pain. In fact, the American Association of Endodontists (AAE) estimate that 15 million root canal therapies occur each year in the United States alone.

In this blog post, we will answer the top 5 questions about root canal therapy and discuss how to identify if you need one.

1. What is a root canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure that involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from a tooth and then cleaning out the root canals. The dentist will then fill the canals with a rubber-like material and seal the tooth. In some cases, a crown may be placed over the tooth to provide additional support and protection.

2. Why do I need a root canal?

A root canal is needed when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or damaged. This can happen due to deep decay, a cracked or broken tooth, repeated dental procedures, or trauma to the tooth. Symptoms of a damaged tooth may include severe pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, or an abscess.

Here is a story to help illustrate this point:

One of my patients, let’s call her Sarah, came to my clinic with a severe toothache. She had been experiencing pain for several days and had been taking painkillers to manage it. After examining her, I discovered that the pulp inside her tooth had become infected due to deep decay. I recommended a root canal to save her tooth and prevent the infection from spreading.

3. How do I know if I need a root canal?

If you are experiencing severe pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, or an abscess, you may need a root canal. However, only a dentist can determine if a root canal is necessary. During your dental exam, our dentist will examine your teeth and take X-rays to determine the extent of the damage. Sometimes it turns out that it’s something else that is causing the pain, while other times you may require a root canal. The important thing is to have it examined so you know for sure.

4. What should I expect during a root canal?

During a root canal, the dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth and use specialized tools to remove the infected or damaged pulp. They will then clean and shape the root canals before filling them with a rubber-like material. In some cases, a temporary filling may be placed over the tooth until a permanent crown can be placed.

5. Is a root canal painful?

Contrary to popular belief, root canal therapy is not painful. In fact, many people tend to feel immediate relief if they have been experiencing constant pain up to that point. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the tooth. You may experience some discomfort or soreness after the procedure, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

Root canal therapy is a safe and effective way to save a damaged tooth and relieve pain. If you are experiencing any symptoms of a damaged tooth, such as severe pain or sensitivity, it is important to contact our office right away. With early intervention, a root canal can save your tooth and prevent further damage!