The mere mention of root canal treatments may cause you pangs of fear. There’s probably no procedure that elicits quite the same reaction.
So, if you’ve been told you need a root canal treatment, it’s understandable you’d ask, “Is it really necessary? ” “Are there other options? ” and “Why me? ”
Before we discuss answering any of these questions, it’s important to mention that root canal treatment doesn’t live up to the hype. The procedure is straightforward and pain-free, with a high success rate. Best of all, it gets rid of the severe toothache you were probably experiencing when you walked through our doors.
In this article, we’ll answer the question, “Why do I need root canal treatment? ” and give you an idea of what to expect from the whole process.
What Is a Root Canal?
First, let’s talk about the name. The root canal is a part of your tooth. Every tooth has a root canal —some have up to four. Root canals contain all of the living parts of your teeth, including nerve endings, connective tissue, and more.
Collectively, this is known as the “dental pulp”.
Dental pulp spreads upward in the tooth to the pulp chamber, which is the area at the core of the tooth coated with the harder outer layers of dentin and enamel.
So, What Is a Root Canal Treatment?
Put simply, a root canal treatment is a procedure to fight infection affecting the dental pulp. It’s performed by our endodontist, a specialist who specifically treats problems affecting the dental pulp.
The procedure is designed to save infected teeth.
Why Do I Need a Root Canal Treatment?
If a dentist has informed you that you need a root canal treatment, it means that bacteria have entered your tooth and caused an infection in the pulp chamber and root canal. The bacteria may have entered through a cavity caused by tooth decay, chip, or crack.
Dental infections often cause severe toothaches. This situation occurs because the tissue inside the tooth becomes inflamed and presses against the sensitive nerve endings.
If you’re reading this because you’re experiencing this, we don’t need to describe the pain you’re in.
You may have previously had some sensitivity or mild toothache, although this isn’t always the case.
Do I Actually Need Root Canal Treatment?
It’s crucial to schedule a root canal as soon as you receive the diagnosis. You risk losing your tooth and getting an abscess if you don’t get treatment. Any infection could also spread to your other teeth, gums, and jaw.
Dental infections could also move onto other parts of your body. If an infection reaches your bloodstream, it can spread to your vital organs and become life-threatening.
How Do I Know If I Need a Root Canal Treatment?
We’ll assess your teeth to see whether you need a root canal treatment. There are several symptoms, which indicate you should see us. These include:
- Toothache
- Sensitivity in your teeth while biting
- Sensitivity in your teeth to hot and cold
- Swelling in your cheek and gums
- Your tooth appears grey or black
- Bad breath
- A bad taste in your mouth
- Pus around the base of your tooth
If it’s not already, the toothache can become unbearable, affecting your ability to eat, sleep, speak, work, and live your life.
Sometimes the pain can subside after a while. But don’t assume the infection is gone. It’s still there; it’s worse, and the symptoms will return.
The Myths Around Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment has always received an unfair reputation. You might hear people say the procedure is very painful or takes an age. People may wince and offer up deep sympathy for you.
Shared experiences of root canal treatments may be second-hand or exaggerated for effect. It’s easy to cling to these old myths, and it’s sometimes human nature to talk up the negatives.
Dentistry has evolved over the years. Our techniques are more effective than ever and we now have better tools and improved pain management. We have long relegated the root canal methods that once contributed to the treatment’s reputation to the annals of history.
Root canal treatment is not painful. We provide an anaesthetic to manage discomfort.
Once your treatment is over, the worst of your toothache will have gone. Over-the-counter painkillers can easily manage the mild sensitivity you may still experience.
The procedure isn’t as long as you may have been told. Modern technology and techniques streamline the process. We aim to get you back to your normal routine as quickly as possible.
What Happens?
After taking X-rays and assessing your teeth, we’ll give you an anaesthetic. Next, we’ll remove the infected soft tissue from inside your tooth along with the bacteria.
Once your tooth is infection-free, we’ll fill the inside with a natural latex-like material and close it with a filling. It really is as simple as this.
We can add a dental crown at a later date to improve the appearance of a damaged tooth and protect it from future infection.
You’re In the Best Hands
The Row is home to Dr Carol Tait, a specialist Endodontist who knows this procedure exceptionally well. From assessment right through to post-treatment support, you’ll get the best care.
Every procedure uses the latest clinically proven patient-friendly methods and the best tools and materials, ensuring a smooth experience.
I’m Still Scared. What Can I Do?
We’re glad you told us. At The Row Dental, we always listen to your fears and anxieties about dental care. Dental phobia affects many people, and everyone’s experience is different. The more we know, the better we can help.
Tell us if you’re worried about any part of the process, and we’ll try to change it. Our team of understanding and supportive dentists in Edinburgh is here to ensure you feel comfortable and cared for.
When you feel anxious, using noise-cancelling headphones and trying grounding and mindfulness techniques can also help you out of fight or flight mode.
Root Canal Treatments On The Row
Root canal treatments save smiles, and they are much gentler than you might expect. If you’re experiencing symptoms of a dental infection, please contact us today to book an appointment.
