When people mention root canals, they often speak of them as they would speak of martyrdom: something exceedingly unpleasant that is to be born with heroic valor. However, this bleak view persists primarily because there are so many myths surrounding the procedure. When you receive a root canal from your Mansfield, TX dentist, you will experience minimal discomfort in a procedure designed to save your tooth and preserve your smile. If you are preparing to undergo a root canal, alleviate your anxieties by learning the truth behind some of dentistry’s most enduring myths.
1. Root Canals Are Extremely Painful
Root canals actually relieve existing pain that stems from inflamed dental pulp or an infected root. Before the evolution of modern anesthesia, root canals did often involve significant discomfort. However, modern sedation techniques mean that root canals usually involve very little irritation. In fact, many patients describe the physical sensation of a root canal as a mild but painless pressure.
2. Immediately after a Root Canal, All Discomfort Will Disappear
While root canals do greatly relieve the inflammation and irritation of an infected tooth, the pain does not immediately vanish. Though some patients may experience instantaneous and total relief, your tooth will most likely be somewhat sensitive after your root canal, especially when you are eating. However, the discomfort you feel will be quite minor compared to the soreness of an infected tooth.
3. If I Don’t Want a Root Canal, an Extraction Works Just as Well
Although dental technology provides superior methods of tooth replacement, when possible, it is always better to save your natural tooth. Replacing a tooth is often more costly and involves a lengthier process. Additionally, dental restorations often involve care beyond what you would give to a natural tooth. In some cases, you may also have to avoid certain foods that can damage restorations. By saving your natural tooth, you can maintain your smile using normal dental hygiene.
4. During a Root Canal, the Dentist Removes My Dental Roots
Saving your tooth means preserving as much of the natural tooth structure as possible. During a root canal, your dentist will remove infected, inflamed pulp from the canals and inner chamber of your tooth. Then he will fill the tooth with gutta percha, which prevents bacteria from entering into the tooth. Finally, he will complete the procedure by placing a permanent dental crown. During the procedure, he leaves the dental roots intact, giving your tooth a stable base and protecting your jawbone health.
5. My Tooth Will Look Bad after My Root Canal
The last step of a root canal is the placement of a dental crown. We offer several types of restorations, including all-porcelain crowns, which are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. Your dentist will custom create the crown to correspond with the shape and tint of your other teeth. Thanks to our personalized treatment and expertise, after your root canal, your smile will look natural and healthy.
6. Root Canals Require Multiple Visits to the Dentist
Typically, root canals involve only two trips to the dentist. During the first visit, your dentist will remove the infected material from your tooth and fill the inner chamber with gutta percha. At your second visit, you will receive your dental crown. We usually recommend that you come in for a checkup several weeks or even months after your procedure. We know that you have a busy schedule, and we will work to make all appointments convenient and efficient.
About Mansfield Dental Associates
At Mansfield Dental Associates, Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris share the same vision and philosophy when it comes to patient care. We provide thorough, compassionate restorative dental care, including root canals and customized dental crowns. To learn more or to schedule your appointment, call 817-473-6227 today. We proudly treat patients in Mansfield, Fort Worth, Arlington, Crowley, Burleson, and the surrounding areas.
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