You might have heard that some people are afraid of the dentist. I’m willing to wager that most people are afraid of getting a root canal. But you don’t have to be afraid of getting a root canal in Raleigh, NC. Today we are going to explain what a root canal is and why you shouldn’t be afraid of getting one done.
What’s a Root Canal?
Every tooth has three layers. The first layer is the outer protective layer of the tooth called the enamel. The second layer is the dentin, a hard inner layer. The soft tissue on the inside of the tooth is called the pulp. The pulp contains blood vessels, connective tissues, and nerves. When these nerves get inflamed or infected, it can be very painful.
Sometimes when a patient has a cavity, the cavity can eat through the enamel and the dentin, getting into the soft tissue of the pulp. When bacteria gets into those soft tissues, it becomes necessary to perform a procedure called a root canal. The root canal removes all of the infected tissue inside the root of the tooth.
Once all the infected tissue is removed, the tooth is then cleaned and disinfected. At this time, the dentist will fill the tooth and seal it to protect it from future cavities. Sometimes when a root canal is done, a crown will need to be placed on the tooth to protect it from future cavities.
A root canal in Raleigh, NC can be done in one or two sessions at the dentist’s office.
Why Get A Root Canal?
Many people that visit the dentist wonder why they should get a root canal rather than have their tooth removed or implants placed later. A root canal offers many long-term benefits, such as:
- Preserving a natural bite
- Preventing the need for implants or bridges
- Protecting surrounding teeth from damage
Getting a root canal will almost immediately stop the pain associated with the decaying tooth. Further, it will preserve your natural bite and allow you to continue using your natural tooth, which is preferred. Losing a tooth can cause movement of the teeth, making it difficult to chew, and sometimes it can even lead to bone loss in the surrounding area. The alternative is costly, invasive procedures to replace the tooth, such as dental implants.
Additionally, if you want to avoid having to go to an emergency dentist in Raleigh, NC, your best bet is to get your root canal done when your dentist notices that there is a problem during your normal dental maintenance. Many patients put off their root canal out of fear, only to find out that the problem has progressed. It’s easier to repair the problem if it doesn’t become a dental emergency!
Simple, Painless Procedure
From the beginning, we listen to you explain what is happening with your tooth. Then we take images of your tooth to determine what work needs to be done on it. If at all possible, we will take whatever steps we can to avoid a root canal.
But if a root canal becomes necessary, the procedure is virtually painless with today’s anesthetics. Most people leave from a root canal having less pain than when they came in. Usually, prior to a root canal, a patient will have hot and/or cold sensitivity, tooth pain, sensitivity, and even swelling. Once the infection is removed, the tooth doesn’t experience any more pain and the hot and cold sensitivity tends to go away over time.
Getting a root canal should be a simple, even painless procedure. We know that patients are often nervous when they have to come in for dental work and we work really hard to put your mind at ease. If you are afraid to get a root canal in Raleigh, NC, don’t hesitate to let us know. We don’t mind explaining the process in more depth to you.
Final Thoughts
Age-old descriptions of root canals still persist in most people’s minds and as a result, the idea of getting a root canal sounds scary. But root canals aren’t a scary procedure and they are virtually pain-free. A dentist can perform a root canal safely and efficiently to preserve your natural tooth preventing future problems.
Request an appointment today to set an appointment to take care of your root canal in Raleigh, NC.