Everyone has heard of the dental procedure known as a root canal.
However, if you've never had one before, you may be curious to find out exactly what a root canal entails.
Even if you have had one, you may not be completely sure of what is involved in this procedure.
Many people cringe when they hear the term root canal. For some, there is certainly a negative connotation that comes with it. But, you don't have to be afraid of getting a root canal. The process is simple.
If you're in need of root canal treatment in North Vancouver or anywhere else, read on to learn more about the root canal process. Then you can visit your dentist feeling relaxed and confident. Once it's all over, you'll be glad you went through with it and had it done.
What Is a Root Canal?
If you've been experiencing painful tooth sensitivity for an extended period of time, your dentist may suggest that you get a root canal.
When you get a root canal, your experienced dentist will do everything that he or she can to keep you from feeling pain both during and after the procedure. Local anesthesia will be administered during the process; after, you may be a little sore, but you can take over-the-counter pain medicine to help you feel better. Many people feel no pain after a root canal at all.
You may need a root canal because of an issue with an existing filling or because you have a chipped tooth. Both of these issues can result in inflamed and irritated dental nerves. When nerve tissue is damaged or exposed, bacteria can multiply quickly around it and can cause an infection that could later lead to an abscess. It's crucial that you get these issues taken care of before that occurs.
Even if you don't have either of the above problems, if you are very sensitive to hot or cold foods, a root canal can help with those issues as well.
A root canal is a very common procedure and you have nothing to fear. When the root canal procedure is complete, you'll have better chewing efficiency and your discomfort will disappear for good.
A Root Canal Step by Step
There are several simple steps to a root canal and you may be surprised how quickly your procedure is complete. An average root canal treatment takes only thirty to sixty minutes, but more complicated issues may take a bit longer.
First, your dentist will numb the area with anesthesia. Then, he or she will create a small opening in the tooth to get to the inside.
Next, the dentist will carefully remove the infected portion and the dead pulp with a tiny file.
With great precision, your dentist will shape and clean the now open area inside the tooth before filling the tooth with a filling material. Then, he or she will add a crown or filling to strengthen the tooth and to protect it from future issues.
When your root canal is over, your tooth is intact but it is dead inside. You will never again experience pain in that particular tooth. The filling or crown will keep it from becoming brittle so it doesn't crack, but you won't have to worry about the pain in it anymore.
A Root Canal Is a Relief
Don't be afraid to get a root canal. Once the procedure is over, you'll wonder why you waited in the first place. Root canals are 95% effective. Root canals are performed by dentists all over the world every day. They help free so many patients from pain and suffering.
Now that you understand this simple process, perhaps you'd like to give it a try. You'll be glad that you did. If you're looking for a root canal treatment in North Vancouver by an experienced and friendly dental office, please give us a call. We can't wait to hear from you!
