Tooth pain. It can strike at any moment. Tooth pain can range from general sensitivity to sharp, throbbing pain from an infection. Dental treatment is important to assess the problem. An infected tooth needs attention and may require a root canal treatment. The team at Kings Dental in Garland, TX can help save your teeth with root canal therapy.
Just as it sounds, a root canal involves treating the root of the tooth. This treatment is often recommended when the nerve of the tooth has become infected or has lost its blood supply. Patients who need this procedure have developed damage or decay that has led to infection or inflammation. Tooth pain is a sign of a problem; usually, one that cannot be ignored.
Debunking common root canal pain myths
Unfortunately, the phrase root canal often brings to mind numerous myths, misconceptions, and images of pain. In actuality, a root canal for your tooth helps to save the natural tooth and protect your oral health. Several common myths about this treatment can be put to rest with education and truths about the procedure itself.
Myth 1: A root canal is painful.
When a root canal is mentioned, pain is often the first thought associated with the treatment. However, the pain felt is from the infection, decay, or inflammation is already present. The treatment itself is as routine and as painless as having a cavity filled.
Root canal therapy is performed to relieve the pain and protect your oral health. Using x-rays to show the exact location of the damage, the dentist uses specialized instruments to enter the tooth, relieve pressure, and remove the damage. The tooth is disinfected and filled. The entire procedure is done using local anesthetics to ensure patient comfort.
Myth 2: The roots are removed.
Dentists strive to protect your oral health and to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible. The point of a root canal is to save your tooth, not to remove it. The roots remain in place meaning the jaw is not damaged and the teeth will not shift. The canals are cleansed. The infected material is removed. Nerve tissue and pulp are removed to ensure the remaining bacteria are eliminated.
Myth 3: A root canal can make me sick.
Root canal therapy is a safe, effective treatment. It is designed to eliminate bacteria from the infected tooth. With the bacteria safely removed, there is no infection remaining to make the patient ill. Your oral and overall health are improved following the procedure.
We strive to empower you, to make well-informed decisions about your oral health through individual consultation.
Request an AppointmentMyth 4: Benefits are temporary.
The benefits of root canal therapy are numerous. The patient’s pain is relieved. The infection is treated and removed, and the swelling subsides. The tooth and mouth have been protected. A dental crown is placed over the treated tooth to protect it and to maintain the results of the procedure. With good oral practices and regular dental visits, the results of a root canal are long-lasting.
For more information on how to save your teeth with root canal therapy, contact Kings Dental in Garland, TX. Call (214) 703-6900.
