Worried about root canal therapy? Here’s an overview

Your dentist says that your tooth is infected, and root canal therapy is now essential. Like many other patients at the dental clinic, you are worried about the procedure and are wondering what to expect in terms of pain and discomfort. If you visit the right dentist in North Kansas City, MO, you don’t have much to be concerned about. Below we have shared an overview of root canal therapy.

What is root canal therapy?

Also called root canal treatment or RCT, root canal therapy is a standard procedure to save an infected tooth from further decay. Your dentist will only suggest the option when the pulp inside of the tooth is affected. The process involves creating an access opening on the top of the teeth, removing the pulp, decay, and nerves, and sealing the tooth after filling the space with special dental materials. The eventual goal of RCT is to save the infected tooth, which would otherwise need to be extracted.

Signs that you need root canal therapy

Typically, your dentist will take X-rays of the infected tooth to determine the extent of the damage. There could be common signs like sensitivity to hot and cold, severe toothache, and swelling. There could be an abscess in the gums too. Your dentist will only consider the procedure when the infection has developed inside of the tooth.

What is the procedure like?

While the root canal procedure can be done in one appointment, dentists often extend the number of sessions to minimize pain and discomfort. Your dentist may do the procedure or can recommend an endodontist. Local anesthesia is used to numb the infected tooth, following which an access opening is created. Different types of particular dental files are used to remove the bacteria, pulp, and nerves. Once the tooth is cleaned, the dentist will use a permanent filling. Because the tooth becomes weak after the root canal procedure, you may have to agree to get a crown on top, which will add strength and support.

Does the procedure hurt?

As mentioned, RCT is done under local anesthesia, and there is no discomfort or pain. If the dentist believes you have reasons to feel pain after the anesthesia wears away, they will recommend painkillers.

The alternative option to a root canal procedure is tooth extraction, which could be more painful, and you may have to get dental implants that cost a lot more.