A root canal treatment can prevent the need for a tooth’s surgical removal. This procedure treats an infection inside a tooth within the root canal. Since the root canal contains nerve endings and cellular material called dental pulp, an infection within this part of the tooth can produce very painful symptoms and threaten the livelihood of a tooth if not treated in a timely manner. Receiving root canal therapy is a same-day procedure that does not require overly invasive methods or an overnight stay in a clinical facility. Our dentist performs root canal therapy right from our office’s treatment rooms. The time it takes for the treatment to be completed depends on an individual’s unique situation.
What happens if I don’t get root canal treatment?
If our team has recommended that you receive root canal therapy, there is a good reason why. Teeth are unable to heal themselves—especially once infected. To prevent the infection from spreading or forming an abscess, endodontic therapy (root canal treatment) is necessary to preserve biological tooth structure and prevent oral health complications. Foregoing endodontic treatment means that you could lose your tooth and put your oral health at great risk.
Is root canal therapy painful?
Our team administers local anesthetics, and if needed, mild sedatives such as nitrous oxide to promote a comfortable experience during treatment. The majority of our patients report that the sensations felt during endodontic therapy are very much like those felt when receiving a filling. Since having an infected root canal is painful on its own, most people feel a sense of relief after treatment. This is because once the infected materials are removed from the root canal, patients will be able to eat without sensitivity or discomfort. Removing the infected nerve and pulp will eliminate the toothache associated with the infected tooth.
If you have experienced painful toothaches or if we have recommended endodontic treatment, call us today to reserve an appointment for a consultation with our skilled dental team.