Guide To Root Canal Treatments
If there is one thing you might be afraid of hearing at the dentist it is the words “root canal”. For patients who have never had a root canal, they might have some anxiety or fears about the procedure. Unfortunately, root canals have often been depicted on TV and in movies as one of the worst dental procedures. This is a bit overblown. Root canal treatments are much different in 2024 than they were decades ago. And that reputation of being terrible or painful is just not true. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about root canal treatments. For dental treatments in the Lawrence Massachusetts area, please contact our team.
What Is A Root Canal Treatment?
When a part of your tooth starts to decay, it eventually becomes infected. That infection can lead to serious pain, discomfort, tooth loss, and other health concerns. Most people are familiar with cavities and dental fillings. When the outermost layers of a tooth are stripped away by bacteria and plaque a divet or a hole can form. A dentist cleans the area, removes the decay, and then fills in the indent or hole. A root canal is similar. When decay is deep inside the root of the tooth (the part of the tooth below the gums) the root needs to be cleaned and filled in. This is done by making a small hole in the top of the tooth and then using instruments that can clean out and fill the tooth’s root. In the old days, the only solution for decay in the root of a tooth was for the tooth to be pulled. Like fillings, root canals help save teeth and protect them.
Are Root Canal Treatments Painful?
As we mentioned earlier root canal treatments have a bit of an unfair reputation. First and foremost, most people who need a root canal procedure likely are already experiencing significant pain because of toothaches or other symptoms related to deep infection. Modern-day root canal treatments are done to ensure that the patient experiences little to no discomfort during their visit. That said, it is common for there to be some sensitivity around the treated tooth for the first few days after your treatment. Dentists often recommend over-the-counter medications to help relieve any discomfort. If discomfort lasts for more than a few days, you should contact your dentist.
How Do I Know If I Need A Root Canal Treatment?
If you are experiencing a severe toothache or sensitivity around a specific tooth, these might be signs you need a root canal. Unfortunately, a lot of dental problems can go unnoticed for a long period of time. That is why routine dental visits are so important. Cleanings, exams, and X-rays go a long way toward finding issues when they begin instead of after they have already progressed.
Schedule A Dental Appointment in Lawrence Massachusetts
If you live in the Lawrence Massachusetts area and are interested in setting up a dental appointment, please contact our team. We would be happy to help get you on our schedule or answer any of your questions regarding dental treatments.