Root Canal Therapy: Commonly Asked Questions
If the prospect of a root canal procedure has you running for the hills, you may want to consider reading over this list of frequently asked questions before you end up cowering in a corner:
What is root canal therapy?
Root canal treatment is performed when decay or trauma has damaged a tooth, causing it to die. A dentist or endodontist performs a procedure to remove the diseased or damaged pulp from the tooth and then refills the tooth cavity.
Is root canal therapy painful?
In reality, root canal treatment is intended to relieve pain, not cause it. The procedures are very similar to having a cavity filled, so you should experience no more discomfort than that.
What happens after root canal therapy?
Your tooth may be slightly sensitive for a few days, but over-the-counter pain relievers are usually sufficient to relieve any pain you may experience. To return the tooth to full functionality, a crown or other restoration will need to be placed after the root canal therapy is performed.
What if I opt not to choose root canal therapy?
Untreated damage or infection in your tooth can travel through the roots and lead to an abscess or a larger infection, which can cause even more pain and complications.
Is there an alternative to root canal therapy?
You could relieve the pain and infection by having your tooth removed. However, this can lead to problems like bone loss, migration of teeth, and bite issues.
In the case of a severely damaged or decayed tooth, the ideal solution is to save your natural tooth through root canal therapy and restoration. Contrary to popular belief, a root canal procedure is no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed in a cavity, and it can provide enormous benefits to your long-term oral health.
Consult with your dental professional to get answers to any other questions or concerns you may have regarding root canal therapy so you can alleviate your fears and return to your healthy smile.
Do not let another day go by without taking care of your dental needs. Request an appointment now at our Fresno dental office!
More on the same subject
Every article was written for a patient who wanted to understand a procedure before agreeing to it.
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Root Canal Therapy: Frequently Asked Questions
If the prospect of a root canal procedure has you running for the hills, you may want to consider reading over this list of frequently asked questions before you end up cowering in a corner:
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Restoring Your Tooth After a Root Canal
Root canal therapy addresses the tooth’s interior. A crucial final step is placing a permanent restoration to protect the tooth and restore its full form and function. This should be done within one month of the root canal to minimize the risk of re-infection or tooth breakage. A permanent restoration significantly improves the long-term success of the root canal by preventing leakage and fractures.
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An Overview of Root Canal Treatment
Sometimes a tooth is so severely damaged that the only way to save it is with root canal treatment. There is no reason to turn and run if your dentist advises this procedure. The treatment has advanced to the point that it’s often compared to getting a filling. There are certain steps that will be performed as part of nearly every root canal procedure.
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