All of the Dentists Vista CA have probably heard someone say they’d “rather (insert horrible event) than have a root canal.” Many people are more anxious about the prospect of getting a root canal than of any other dental procedure. Actually, the root canal procedure is somewhat like having a routine filling and normally painless because of the numbing effect of a local anesthetic or nitrous oxide sedation. Patients who were suffering from severe tooth pain prior to the dental visit may comment that they feel much better and wish that they had made an appointment sooner.
Why Would a Root Canal be Recommended?
Root canals are performed to save and repair a tooth that has become infected or is badly decayed. The dentist will remove the nerve and pulp then clean and seal the inside of the tooth. If the infection is not removed, the infection spreads to surrounding tissue, forming a very painful abscess.
A root canal may be recommended when the tooth does not (yet) hurt, but the pulp is infected or damaged. Occasionally, a patient will spot something that resembles a pimple near a damaged tooth. This is a fistula and is actually draining the pus from an infection and relieving pressure. The fistula may come and go, but indicates the presence of an underlying infection that will spread if not treated.
Will There be Any Pain After the Root Canal?
Before the root canal, the patient had probably been very cautious about eating or drinking anything hot or cold. After the procedure, those nerves are gone so the tooth is no longer sensitive to temperature extremes. However, the tissue surrounding the tooth may be sensitive for a few days following the treatment. Discuss this with your Dentists Vista CA.
What are the Benefits of Saving the Natural Tooth?
The whole point of having a root canal is to try to save the tooth and prevent the spread of infection. Some of the benefits of saving the tooth include:
* Normal biting and chewing
* Preserving your natural smile
* Protecting other teeth from infection or excessive wear
Dr. George Braithwaite at the Family Dental Office in Vista, CA offers complete family and cosmetic dental care services, including root canal therapy. Preserve your smile and protect your health with needed treatment and preventive care. Same day emergency visits are available.
