The Truth About Root Canals: What You Should Know

If you’ve ever been told you need a root canal, your first reaction may have been fear or anxiety. Root canals have a reputation for being painful and scary, but the truth is, they’re a common and effective dental procedure that can save your tooth and relieve pain. At Smiles by Seese in Davidson, we want to clear up some of the misconceptions surrounding root canals and provide you with the facts.

Here’s what you really need to know about root canals and why they’re not as bad as you might think.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat an infected or damaged tooth. Inside each tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma, it can cause severe pain and sensitivity. Left untreated, the infection can spread, leading to tooth loss or more serious health complications.

During a root canal procedure, the infected pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, and the tooth is sealed with a filling or crown. The goal is to save the natural tooth and prevent the need for extraction.

Root Canal Myths vs. Reality

There are a lot of misconceptions about root canals, and it’s time to set the record straight. Let’s debunk some of the most common myths:

Myth #1: Root Canals Are Extremely Painful

Reality: Thanks to modern dental techniques and local anesthesia, root canals are no more painful than getting a regular filling. In fact, the procedure is designed to relieve the pain caused by the infected tooth. Most patients report feeling little to no discomfort during the procedure. The relief you’ll experience after the infection is removed is well worth it!

Myth #2: It’s Better to Pull the Tooth Than Get a Root Canal

Reality: While extracting a tooth may seem like an easier solution, keeping your natural tooth is always the best option. A root canal allows you to save your tooth and maintain your natural bite, speech, and chewing function. Extracting the tooth may require a more costly replacement solution, such as a dental implant or bridge, to prevent shifting of surrounding teeth.

Myth #3: Root Canals Cause Illness

Reality: This outdated myth stems from debunked theories from nearly a century ago. There is no scientific evidence that root canals cause illness. In fact, they’re a safe and effective way to treat dental infections and protect your overall health. Untreated dental infections, on the other hand, can lead to serious complications.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

How do you know if you need a root canal? While only a dentist can diagnose the need for one, here are some common symptoms that may indicate an infected tooth:

• Severe toothache: Persistent pain that worsens when chewing or applying pressure may be a sign of infection.
• Sensitivity to hot and cold: Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks is another red flag.
• Discoloration: A darkening of the tooth can indicate damage or infection inside the tooth.
• Swollen gums: Swelling, tenderness, or a small bump on the gums near the affected tooth can be a sign of infection.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait! The sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances of saving the tooth with a root canal.

What to Expect During a Root Canal

At Smiles by Seese, our goal is to make your root canal experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:

1. Numbing the Area: Before the procedure begins, we’ll administer local anesthesia to ensure you don’t feel any pain.
2. Removing the Infected Pulp: Dr. Seese will create a small opening in the tooth to access the pulp, then carefully remove the infected tissue.
3. Cleaning and Disinfecting: The inside of the tooth will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to remove any remaining bacteria.
4. Sealing the Tooth: After cleaning, the tooth will be sealed to prevent further infection. In most cases, a crown will be placed over the tooth to restore its strength and function.

The entire procedure typically takes one or two appointments, depending on the severity of the infection. Most patients can return to their normal activities shortly after the procedure, though it’s important to follow any aftercare instructions provided by Dr. Seese.

The Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

Choosing to get a root canal rather than extracting the tooth offers several key benefits:

• Pain Relief: A root canal removes the source of infection and relieves the pain caused by an abscessed tooth.
• Tooth Preservation: Keeping your natural tooth helps maintain your bite, speech, and overall oral health.
• Cost-Effective: Root canals are generally more affordable than tooth extraction and replacement options.
• Improved Oral Health: By treating the infection, you prevent further damage to your teeth and gums.

Why Choose Smiles by Seese?

At Smiles by Seese in Davidson, Dr. Brian Seese is committed to providing the highest quality dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. With extensive experience in restorative dentistry, Dr. Seese uses the latest technology and techniques to ensure your root canal treatment is effective, painless, and stress-free.

Don’t let fear of a root canal keep you from getting the care you need. If you’re experiencing tooth pain or suspect you may need a root canal, contact Smiles by Seese today to schedule a consultation.