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Root Canal Pain – The Truth
Over the years the term “Root Canal” has become a punch line for professional and amateur comedians alike. The idea that a root canal treatment has to be a horrible and painful experience pervades our society to the extent that many people would rather lose a tooth than suffer through the treatment. While this makes for good entertainment, the truth of the matter is that a Root Canal treatment, officially known as endodontic treatment, can often be performed in a manner that is virtually pain free. This is great news to the millions of people who have teeth saved every year by this misunderstood dental treatment.
Myth About Root Canals
The greatest myth about root canals is that the treatment in itself is intensely painful. Actually, for most patients, the root canal procedure is the thing that relieves the pain of a damaged and infected tooth. The pain that people feel is really a result of the pressure that builds up inside the tooth as infection causes swelling of the inner layer of the tooth putting pressure on the nerve. Relief is often dramatic and immediate when the dentist makes an opening through the tooth enamel to expose the infected pulp chamber.
Root Canal treatments are the preferable option in most cases to the extraction of damaged, badly decayed or cracked teeth that have become infected. The treatment removes the infected tooth pulp and replaces it with a biocompatible material that is then sealed. Following completion of the root canal procedure, the tooth can be covered with a crown to restore the tooth to the original shape and size.
One of the keys to ensuring a comfortable and successful root canal treatment is the co-operation of our patients. Be sure to contact Apex Dental immediately if you are experiencing pain in or surrounding a tooth, and particularly if your tooth is sensitive to hot foods or drinks. During the procedure and follow up stages, be sure to follow your dentist’s directions closely. These simple steps can prevent much of the discomfort that many people associate with this tooth saving treatment and help insure a successful and long-lasting result.