Worried about experiencing pain from a root canal? Root canal therapy aims to address infected or damaged tooth pulp, alleviating pain and stopping the spread of infection. Despite persistent myths about the procedure being painful, it’s crucial to understand the reality of root canal treatment. Keep reading to uncover the facts about the procedure, what you can actually expect in terms of discomfort, and how it can help restore your dental health.
5 Signs That You Might Need a Root Canal
Beyond tooth pain, dentists consider several other indicators that might suggest the need for a root canal. They also evaluate factors such as:
- Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Discoloration or darkening of the tooth
- Cracks or chips in the tooth
- Pain while chewing or biting down
- Swelling, tenderness, or redness in the gums
- Sensitivity to hot and cold foods or drinks
- Advanced tooth decay
- Shifting or loose teeth
- Presence of a bump on the gums near the affected tooth
- Intense or severe tooth pain
Does Root Canal Therapy Hurt?
Root canal therapy was once feared due to pain, but improvements in anesthesia and dental technology have made it much more comfortable. Your dentist will use local anesthetic to numb the area, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure.
Sedation options may also be available to help you relax. After the procedure, you might feel some mild discomfort or sensitivity, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter or prescribed pain relievers.
This procedure ensures a pain-free experience during the treatment and also addresses the pain caused by the tooth infection. By removing the infected or damaged pulp, which contains the nerves responsible for transmitting pain, the source of discomfort is eliminated. Consequently, patients usually find significant relief and greater comfort after the procedure.
Why You Shouldn’t Put Off Treatment
Although root canal therapy is typically painless, some people still have concerns. Avoiding the procedure can lead to more serious dental issues, as untreated infections may spread, causing more pain and complications. Addressing dental problems early helps prevent more significant issues down the line.
Ignoring an infected tooth can result in the need for extraction, a more invasive and expensive procedure. Root canal therapy is a safe and effective alternative that treats tooth infections while preserving your tooth. Opting for a root canal helps avoid more severe problems and keeps your smile intact.
About the Practice
At Capron Park Dental, our skilled team is dedicated to providing thorough care to enhance and maintain your beautiful smile. We offer a full spectrum of services, including preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, tailored to your individual needs. This encompasses root canal therapy for treating infected or damaged teeth. With four experienced dentists on our team, we use the latest techniques and technology to ensure safe, comfortable treatment. If you are in need of urgent care , want to learn more about root canals, or are ready to schedule an appointment, call Capron Park Dental at (508) 222-5950 or visit our website.