You just found out you need a root canal. Although you have never had one before, you are already anxious because of what you heard about root canals. Root canals, or root canal therapy, are not as scary as they sound once you have the facts.
What Is A Root Canal?
When most people say root canal, they are referring to a dental procedure that the like having a filling, except the filling material is placed in the root of the tooth. During a root canal procedure, the infection in the tooth canals are cleaned and then sealed. Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected and abscesses may form. Symptoms include:
- Pain when eating or when you put pressure on the area
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that continues after the hot or cold is removed
- A small, pimple-like bump on the gums near the area of teeth pain
- Darkening of the tooth
- Tenderness or swelling in the gums near the area of teeth pain
Is A Root Canal Painful?
This is the biggest misconception when it comes to root canals. A survey by the American Association of Endodontists found 2/3 of Americans list fear of pain as their main concern when it comes to root canals, likely stemming from early treatment methods. The root canal removes the cause of the pain. The infection in the tooth causes pain. If this infection is not addressed, it can cause more serious problems. Don’t delay if you suspect you may need a root canal! At Emergency Dental, we are here to help you get out of pain.
Are Root Canals Expensive?
The cost of a root canal can vary depending on which tooth is involved, but generally root canals are cheaper than having a tooth extracted and replaced with an implant or a bridge. We are happy to provide estimates and alternative treatment plans. Also, payment plans at Emergency Dental help you cover the expense and keep your smile intact.
Do Root Canals Take a Long Time?
Most root canals take no longer than a couple of hours and are finished in one appointment. You may need to come back for a crown or filling, but less severe root canals can be finished in one visit. Here is a quick video that details what you can expect during a root canal from start to finish.
Just like most things, the more you know, the less you have to fear. If you still have questions about root canals or other alternatives, we are always willing to help! Give us a call today!
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