Need A Root Canal?

Hearing the term “root canal” often brings up worry for many people. However, this common dental procedure isn’t as painful or scary as many think. A lot of fear about root canals comes from not knowing what the treatment really involves. With the right information, you can feel more relaxed, especially with the skilled dentists at Bella Smiles in Long Island, NY.

A root canal is needed when the soft tissue inside your tooth, called the pulp, becomes infected. This infection can start from deep decay or from bacteria entering the tooth through a crack or chip. If left untreated, the infection can travel down the root, reaching your gums and forming a painful abscess. An abscess is serious and, if ignored, the infection could even spread beyond the mouth, leading to wider health issues.

How Do You Know if You Need a Root Canal?

If you feel a strong ache in your tooth or sensitivity when eating hot or cold foods, these could be signs of trouble inside the tooth. Other signs that you might need a root canal include pain when you chew or bite down, or gums around the tooth that are swollen, red, or tender.

These symptoms can mean that an infection has reached the tooth’s inner part, or pulp, where nerves and blood vessels are located. If this pulp is infected or damaged, a root canal can be the best way to save the tooth.

It’s crucial to let your dentist know about any of these symptoms as soon as you notice them. Waiting too long can allow the infection to spread, causing worse pain or even leading to tooth loss. During your visit, your dentist will examine the tooth and may take X-rays to check for signs of infection, cracks, or deep decay affecting the pulp.

If the pulp is indeed infected or damaged, your dentist may suggest a root canal to clear out the infection. This procedure helps prevent the spread of infection, possibly saving the tooth from extraction. In some cases, the dentist may refer you to a specialist called an endodontist. Endodontists are experts in root canals and treat more complex cases or infections that have spread deep into the tooth.

The Root Canal Procedure Step-by-Step

The root canal procedure is straightforward and is usually no more painful than getting a filling. First, your dentist will numb the area around the tooth to make sure you’re comfortable. They’ll then create a small opening at the top of the tooth to reach the infected pulp inside.

After that, they remove the pulp from the inside of the tooth and its roots. Since adult teeth get nutrients from nearby tissues, they don’t need the pulp to stay healthy.

The dentist will clean and disinfect the empty space inside the tooth once he removes the pulp. They might place a temporary filling or even a small metal rod in the root to strengthen the tooth if it’s weak.

The next step is sealing the tooth with a crown to protect it. A crown is a custom-made cover that looks like a natural tooth, blending in with your other teeth. In a few days, any swelling or discomfort should go away, and you’ll be able to use the tooth as usual.

Why Do Root Canals Have a Bad Reputation?

Many people think root canals are very painful, but with modern technology and anesthesia, most patients find the procedure to be easy to handle. A root canal actually relieves the pain caused by infection, helping to save the tooth and avoid more serious issues.

Root canals aren’t as intimidating as they may seem. They’re actually helpful in saving natural teeth, allowing you to eat and smile just as before. Good oral care is key to avoiding the need for a root canal. Brushing twice daily, flossing every day, and getting regular checkups with your dentist at Bella Smiles are important steps in keeping your teeth healthy.

If you do find yourself in need of a root canal, rest assured that the procedure is safe and effective, and there’s no need to worry.

But if you do need a root canal, now you know there’s nothing to worry about. Schedule a consultation at Bella Smiles in Riverhead, Roslyn and Nesconset today!