Your dentist told you that you need to have a root canal in order to save one of your teeth. The problem is that you have heard that root canals can be uncomfortable – even painful! In old movies and TV shows, they sound unbearable. Fortunately, you no longer need to worry about pain during root canal therapy. With modern dental technology and anesthetics, you shouldn’t be dealing with any of the severe pain that you have heard of. Continue reading to learn more about root canal therapy in Denison and what you can expect from this procedure.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a very common procedure that saves millions of teeth every year. During this treatment, your dentist creates an opening in the tooth to remove the infected pulp and nerve at the center. Afterwards, they clean out the inside and seal it to prevent future infections. This prevents the infection from spreading to other areas in the mouth and causing more serious, painful issues. Without root canal therapy, an extraction would likely be necessary. After your procedure, your dentist may opt to place a crown in order to protect your tooth from further damage.
How Painful Is Root Canal Therapy?
You are much more likely to be in pain when you need a root canal than when you are actually undergoing the procedure. Root canals actually relieve the pain of an infected or abscessed tooth. During your actual procedure, you should feel little to no discomfort because your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area. It’s possible to experience some mild discomfort and sensitivity for a few days following the procedure, but with over-the-counter pain relievers, you shouldn’t have any trouble.
What Are the Signs That I Need Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a very common procedure. Here are some of the signs that could indicate that you are in need of one:
- Lingering tooth sensitivity that is often related to hot or cold foods and beverages
- Sharp pain when chewing or biting
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Pimples on the gums
- Deep decay
- Darkened gums
- Swollen or painful gums
You don’t need to dread root canal therapy. With modern anesthetics, it will be over before you know it, and your pain will have diminished!
About the Author
Dr. Ryan Bygness is an experience dentist who has been practicing for more than two decades. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and is committed to continuing education to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. Currently, he is a proud member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and Academy of General Dentistry. For more information or to schedule an appointment at his office in Denison, visit his website or call (712) 263-3252.