Originally posted on https://www.woodbridgedental.co.uk/benefits-of-root-canal-treatment-frequently-asked-questions/
Root canal treatment has a number of important benefits that you should consider when deciding if the treatment is the right option for you.
When you have root canal treatment, you can save your natural teeth, instead of having to extract them and perhaps replace them with dentures, bridges, implants or other options. Saving your natural teeth can mean saving money and avoiding having further treatments. Root canal treatment is quick and fairly easy, whereas other treatment options might take longer and cost more. Keeping your natural teeth should be a priority so that you can enjoy your natural smile, and continue to eat the foods that you love too.
Root canal treatment aims to address the problem of an infected tooth to help you have a healthier smile. If you are experiencing pain due to an infection, root canal treatment can relieve the pain so that you no longer feel discomfort. Although you might have a very small amount of pain while the tooth is healing and some sensitivity for a while, the treatment will repair the tooth and you won’t have to deal with the pain caused by the infection and inflammation.
After you have root canal treatment, your tooth will be protected by the crown that is put in place. This will help to keep it healthy and ensure that your tooth works as it should. You will be able to eat and drink normally, talk normally and retain your natural smile.
Our specialist team will ensure that you receive as many benefits as possible from your root canal treatment. You can discuss with your dentist how a root canal procedure can benefit you and which is the best option for your dental treatment. Just get in touch if you want to know more, or make an appointment.
FAQ
What is endodontics?
Endodontics is the term used for treatment of the inside of the tooth. The word comes from the Greek for inside – “endo” – and the word for tooth, “odont”. Root canal treatment is one type of endodontic treatment that you might require. Endodontics takes care of the pulp inside the tooth.
Why would I need a root canal procedure?
If the pulp inside one of your teeth becomes inflamed or infected, you might need to have endodontic treatment. It allows the tooth to be treated without having to extract it. It can be useful for decay, cracked teeth and other injuries that might affect the pulp.
What signs indicate the need for root canal treatment?
If you need a root canal treatment, you might find that you experience toothache. You could also have a tooth that is sensitive to heat or cold or is tender when touched or when chewing. Discolouration of the tooth and swelling are two other symptoms you might experience. However, some people might not see or feel any signs.
How does root canal treatment save the tooth?
Root canal treatment saves the tooth by removing the damaged pulp and cleaning out the root canals. This means that the rest of the tooth can be saved, and the root canals can be filled.
How many appointments does it take?
The number of appointments required for a root canal can vary depending on how complicated the treatment is. More than one appointment is normal, including one to assess the likelihood of success with root canal treatment, an appointment for treatment and perhaps a further appointment if there is a severe infection.
Is it painful?
Root canal treatment shouldn’t be painful. Anaesthetic is used to numb the treatment area so that there is no pain and the treatment can in fact relieve the pain that you might have been experiencing from an infection. A small amount of discomfort or sensitivity is possible after the treatment.
How can you help if I’m nervous or anxious?
It’s not unusual to feel anxious at the dentist, especially when you think about having a root canal treatment. There are ways to help you relax, including sedation dentistry, which uses a few different methods to help patients stay calm while the dentist is working.
What other treatment options are there?
There might be other treatment options to consider instead of root canal treatment, but this depends on the circumstances. Sometimes, extracting the tooth might be the right option, but it’s important to consider each case individually. You can talk about your treatment options with your dentist to decide what type of treatment might be right for you.