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The short answer is no, you should not be afraid of root canal therapy. Modern technology has made it so that root canal therapy is often less painful than the toothache that you are experiencing that makes the root canal therapy necessary. While relieving your pain, root canal therapy can often save your tooth from a necessary extraction. If your dentist gives you the news that you will be needing a root canal treatment, do not fret. Take a deep breath, ask any questions that you need to, and relax. 

Why Do I Need It?

Root canal treatment can often be avoided. The most common reason that it is necessary is because tooth decay has reached the inner pulp of the tooth and has caused an infection. To reach this point, the bacteria that causes tooth decay would have needed to have gotten past the enamel and dentin, the two first layers of the tooth. Decay in the enamel may not be noticeable to you until it causes a cavity that may cause sensitivity. Although, your dentist would be able to spot early signs of tooth decay at a routine checkup. Once a cavity is formed, your dentist could stop the progression with a filling. The tooth would be disinfected and restored before the decay would have a chance to reach the inner pulp. However, if the bacteria reaches the inner depths of the tooth, root canal therapy will be necessary to stop drainage and further infection. If a root canal is not done, an extraction may be necessary to protect your other teeth and your overall health. There are times when a root canal treatment may be necessary when there was not decay; for instance, a severe break or fracture in the tooth may require it.

What To Expect

Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide local anesthesia to the area. The inner canals of the tooth will be disinfected completely, and any damaged tooth will be removed. The area may be filled, and a crown may be necessary to protect the vulnerable tooth.

Root canal therapy can save your tooth

Talk to your dentist if you are afraid of your root canal therapy. Schedule a consultation at Mansfield Dental Associates by calling 817-473-6227. Located in Mansfield, TX, we also welcome patients and families from all surrounding communities including South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian, and more.