Root Canals 101: Everything You Need to Know
According to the CDC, tooth decay is the most prevalent chronic condition among kids and young adults. Approximately one in every five kids aged five to 11 has at least one untreated cavity.
When decay reaches the tooth’s soft core, or dental pulp, the pulp becomes irritated and inflamed. A build-up of oral bacteria in the pulp can cause infections leading to tooth abscesses. Root canals are dental treatment procedures that aim to remove the decay from the infected tooth pulp and root.
What Is a Root Canal?
Root canals allow dentists to repair a decayed or infected tooth by eliminating bacteria. The dental procedure involves the removal of the pulp and nerve of the tooth and sealing it. If left untreated, the bacteria multiplying in the pulp chamber cause infections and pus-filled pockets in your tooth roots. An alternative root canal is an excellent option for patients who aren’t comfortable with a tooth extraction.
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
A root canal procedure is usually quick and takes between 30 to 60 minutes. More complex procedures may require at least 90 minutes. On average, you can complete a root canal treatment in one or two appointments.
Will You Feel Pain After a Root Canal Procedure?
Many patients shy away from root canals, afraid of the myth that the procedures are quite painful. However, you won’t feel pain during the procedure. The dentist may numb the area or provide anesthesia, which means a root canal won’t feel any different from a regular dental procedure. If you experience any discomfort after the procedure, the discomfort will be mild and can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers.
What Are the Benefits of Root Canals?
You shouldn’t hesitate to opt for the root canal. According to the American Association of Endodontists, approximately 15 million root canals are carried out each year, averaging about 41,000 procedures daily. Here are the three main benefits of root canals:
- They help save your teeth, gums, and jaws. Root canals can help protect your teeth, gums, and jaws by stopping an infection from spreading. It is also an excellent alternative to tooth extraction. If left untreated, a decayed tooth can cause severe oral health issues.
- They let you eat with comfort. Having a decayed or broken tooth can snuff out the joy of eating. With a root canal, your local family dentist can treat your damaged tooth and give you the ability to eat your favorite foods again without pain.
- You enjoy improved overall health. A growing body of research points out close links between dental hygiene and overall wellness and health. It is crucial to understand that dental issues do not affect your teeth and gums only. Poor dental health over a long period of time may increase your risk of chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
Root canals are vital dental procedures that prevent infections in decayed teeth from spreading. For more information on what happens during root canal treatment, feel free to contact Hudson Family Dental. Our dentists are willing to answer any queries you may have about the procedure.