A root canal is a dental procedure that is often necessary when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or damaged. Despite its reputation for being painful, root canal treatment is actually a routine and relatively painless procedure that can save a tooth from extraction.
Here are 10 things you need to know about root canal treatment:
- It's Not as Painful as You Think: The idea of a root canal may conjure up images of excruciating pain, but thanks to modern advances in dentistry, the procedure is no more painful than getting a filling.
- It Saves Your Tooth: The main goal of a root canal is to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted due to infection or damage.
- It's a Multi-Step Process: A root canal typically involves several steps, including removing the infected pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and sealing it with a filling or crown.
- It Requires Multiple Visits: Depending on the severity of the infection, a root canal may require multiple visits to complete the treatment.
- It's Covered by Most Dental Insurance: Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure that is usually covered by most dental insurance plans.
- It's More Affordable Than Extraction: In the long run, getting a root canal is often more cost-effective than having a tooth extracted and replaced with a dental implant or bridge.
- It Has a High Success Rate: Root canals have a high success rate, with the majority of treated teeth lasting a lifetime with proper care.
- It Requires Good Oral Hygiene: After a root canal, it's important to maintain good oral hygiene practices to prevent future infections and ensure the longevity of the treated tooth.
- It's Not Just for Adults: Children can also benefit from root canal treatment if they have a severely infected or damaged tooth.
- It's Best to See a Specialist: If you need a root canal, it's best to see an endodontist, a dentist who specializes in treating the pulp inside teeth, for the most effective and efficient treatment.