About the Root Canal: Information to Consider

A dentist often suggests a root canal when a cavity has allowed the pulp inside the tooth to become infected and damaged. Often, patients who are leery of dental surgery or short on cash will decide to adopt a wait-and-see approach when they are told the procedure is recommended. This is rarely a good idea for a couple of reasons. One, pain is certain to come soon if damaged nerves become infected and an abscess sets in. Two, you risk losing the tooth if surgery is not performed in a timely manner. Here is some more information you need. What It Is Before you can decide what to do about a recommended root canal, it helps to know what it is. The dentist will go in through the cavity and essentially clean up. They will remove any of the damaged pulp that is likely to cause problems. This can't always be done in a single visit, so be prepared for it to stretch out over a couple of sessions. When the dentist is happy that he's gotten all of the damaged debris out of the tooth, he will use a natural substance to refill the tooth and seal it shut. At that point, you can begin the process of getting a permanent restoration that will protect the tooth in the future. Pain Level If you've talked to people who have had a root canal, you've probably gotten conflicting stories. Some swear that it's one of the most painful procedures they've ever dealt with while others claim that it was a piece of cake. What's the truth? For the most part, the numbing solution used during the procedure ensures that it is not painful. Most patients can't even describe the procedure as uncomfortable. The remaining patients (approximately a quarter of the population) may experience discomfort, but this is usually down to the infection itself and not the procedure. It's not unusual, however, to experience some soreness and tenderness during recovery. Alternatives If a dentist has determined that you have an infected pulp, you aren't going to be left with a lot of options once you've decided that a root canal isn't for you. The primary alternative is to have the tooth completely removed. Since this is cheaper, many patients without the funds required for the more extensive surgery will choose this route. Of course, beyond the fact that you are then missing a tooth, there are other disadvantages to this method of treatment. No tooth stands alone. By removing one, you are weakening your structure and it can lead to tooth shift and bone disintegration. If you can afford it, a root canal remains your best option.