subject: The Truth About Root Canal Therapy From Your Alexandria Cosmetic Dentist [print this page] Root canal therapy is one of the most feared procedures in dentistry. Whether friends have warned you about their dreadful experiences or you suffered a painful root canal in the past, you can't seem to dismiss the negative misgivings that are linked to root canal treatment.
Unfortunately, the root canal reputation is frequently over exaggerated. In fact, it's not the procedure that causes pain, but the infected tooth that has left you in extreme discomfort. With so many advances in dental care today, a root canal treatment can be performed by your Alexandria cosmetic dentist as easily as having a filling placed. Keep reading to learn more.
Root Canals Ease Pain, Not Cause Pain
The perception of root canal therapy being painful started years ago when today's technologies and anesthetics didn't exist. Advances in dentistry today have made it possible for a dentist to administer root canal treatment that is no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed or a tooth extracted. In fact, according to the American Association of Endodontics, a recent survey revealed that patients who have experienced root canal treatment are six times more likely to describe it as "painless" than patients who have not had root canal therapy. Most patients who have root canal experience little or no discomfort or pain, and enjoy a restored tooth that can last almost as long as its healthy original. That's because when patients go to their dentist with a severe toothache caused by damaged tissues, root canal treatment removes this damaged tissue, thereby relieving the pain you are experiencing
Root canal therapy is necessary to save a tooth that has been infected with bacteria or when the tooth has sustained trauma that has damaged the nerve. During a root canal, the nerve and pulp are removed and your dentist cleans and seals the inside of the affected tooth. This aids in the prevention of abscesses and further spreading of the infection.
Root canals are highly successful. In fact, the treatment has more than a 95% success rate. There are many benefits, including:
Infection is removed from the pulp
Helps prevent dental decay
Protects against having teeth permanently extracted
Eases pain associated with decay
Do You Need a Root Canal?
Signs that indicate the need for a root canal include:
Severe tooth pain, especially upon chewing
Prolonged sensitivity to temperatures
Tooth discoloration
Tender, swollen gums around the affected tooth
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's always recommended to discuss your pain and treatment options with your dentist in Old Town Alexandria. He can advise you on whether root canal therapy can help stop your pain and treat your infection. Remember, symptoms won't always accompany an infected tooth. Therefore, routine checkups with your Alexandria dentist are critical for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
by: Gen Wright
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