Have you had the misfortune to suffer from a dental infection recently? Then you will undoubtedly be looking for a solution to make sure that it never happens again! Aside from having a full extraction of the tooth, which may not be suitable based on its location, the only other option is to have a root canal.
Many patients have concerns about having root canals performed and this is an unjustified fear. Many people worry that the procedure will be uncomfortable, but dental teams around the world can attest to the solution and comfort level that this procedure actually creates, especially if you have just had a dental infection.
And like most things, fear of something usually comes from a lack of information. So, in this article, 5 questions that are commonly researched relating to root canals will be answered to help you learn more about the procedure and the ways you can benefit from it.
Why would I need a root canal?
If your dentist Bondi Junction recommends that you should have a root canal, it is probably because you have recently had a dental infection or currently have one. In some cases, it may be required if a tooth has split all the way to the root and cannot be repaired with a crown.
Do they hurt?
This is a common concern that many dental patients have, but the reality is no, a root canal will not be painful. In actual fact, many dental teams state that when their patient has had an endodontic procedure performed, they actually report a decrease in the discomfort, as the infection is no longer causing swelling pressure and soreness in their mouth.
Simply put, when you attend your dental surgery to have a root canal performed, your dental team will ensure that the area is numbed before they begin. When you are recovering at home, there may be a slight bruising sensation which is normal, and this should subside in a few days. This should also be easy to manage with the use of medication such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.
Can they cause the infection to spread?
No, a root canal actually removes the source of the infection from the pulp and, as the pulp is encased in bone, a root canal cannot cause the infection to spread. But, leaving the infection to its own devices can cause it to spread and many people who have had dental infections can attest to the fact that it is not only the tooth that has the infection that swells, but it is the entire surrounding area. This can cause issues with misalignment and eating if left for too long without treatment.
Are they just a stop-gap until the tooth is extracted?
No, they are not a stop-gap and a root canal is designed to restore the tooth to its former strength, so it can be used to bite into and chew food as it did before the infection. If you do not maintain good oral hygiene, however, the tooth may need to be extracted due to decay, but this is not associated with the root canal.
How long do they last?
With correct aftercare such as brushing twice a day, flossing and attending regular appointments with your dental team, a root canal should easily last the rest of your life without a recurrence of the abscess or any associated discomfort.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
