Five things you need to know about a root canal #ad
One of the most disliked of all dental procedures – the root canal process is surrounded by mistruths and misinformation.
For many people, the idea of needing a root canal is a bigger worry than needing to have a tooth removed. In fact, most dental surgeries will offer patients a root canal to prevent them from needing to have their tooth removed, yet few people are particularly happy to have one.
In simple terms, a root canal – or endodontics – is when the decay inside the root of a tooth is cleaned out, and the root is filled with a substance called Gutta-percha. This saves the tooth, removes the infection and helps to keep everything clean and hygienic.
So, if you have been told you need to have a root canal, here is what you need to know about the procedure…
It isn’t painful
Starting with the most obvious concern – a root canal isn’t painful.
In fact, many dental surgeries will offer it as a pain-relieving treatment, usually following a dental infection. Much like getting a filling, a crown or an extraction, the process is performed with a local anaesthetic. This numbs the area and prevents soreness. Balham dental care services with Direct Dental will also aim to ensure you have adequate antibiotic treatment and pain relief after the root canal, which will help you manage any soreness. Any discomfort will be temporary. If it isn’t, talk to your dental team!
It won’t make your tooth go black
Many people presume a root canal will cause the tooth to go black. This is not true. A root canal will aim to remove part or the entire nerve of the tooth, but this won’t cause the tooth to change colour.
It won’t crack your tooth
There is another idea floating around that root canal treatment will cause the tooth it is performed on to crack. It is true that a root canal can weaken your tooth. However, your dentist will usually seek to strengthen a weakened tooth with a crown or large filling, as well as the root canal. Root canals have not been linked to dental cracks. Instead, if you have experienced tooth cracking, you may need a root canal to repair it.
It doesn’t delay an extraction
Another school of thought states that, if an adult has a root canal, it is just a stop-gap until the tooth is removed. This is also not true. A root canal is considered a long-term solution to dental infection and damage. If performed correctly, the person receiving it shouldn’t need any additional work on their tooth.
It can last for years
Providing the root canal is maintained as it needs to be, with regular cleaning and dental check-ups, it can last for well over a decade and even longer. If you suspect an issue with your root canal, please do not hesitate to contact your dentist for an examination to assess the cause of the issue.
