North Vancouver Root Canal Therapy
In the past, the two scariest words in the dental field were “root canal.” However, this is no longer the case.
A root canal requires dealing with infected nerves at the root of a tooth. The procedure can be deep and invasive, so of course it’s not something you’ll be excited about, especially if you’re not a fan of the dentist in the first place. However, root canals are effective ways to deal with major dental issues.
A root canal treatment can actually save your tooth, so it’s not something you should disregard simply because of its negative connotation. A root canal is a dental procedure used to remove inflamed or infected pulp, bacteria, and nerve tissue from inside the tooth. It can also save a tooth that has been damaged due to injury. During the procedure, the tooth is cleaned and disinfected. The dentist will then fill and seal it.
A root canal treatment serves several purposes. It eliminates bacteria from the tooth, prevents reinfection of the tooth, and most importantly, saves the tooth.
Do you need a root canal? You might if you have an abscess on the gums or a tooth that feels looser. If you are experiencing swelling, tenderness, sensitivity, and severe pain, those are all signs that you might need a root canal. At the very least, you should have a dentist assess your mouth.
Millions of root canals are performed every year in the United States, so it’s a common procedure. You shouldn’t be scared. In fact, a root canal can provide relief and help your teeth function like normal again. Read on to learn more about how root canal therapy can help you.
Why a Root Canal Isn’t as Scary as You Think
A root canal is not as complex as you may think. It’s a little more involved than getting a filling, but it’s not a major procedure that will take hours and force you to recover for days. You’ll be back to yourself in no time, but without pain and discomfort. Here are some other things to keep in mind:
- Just one appointment is needed. Unlike dental implants, root canals don’t require multiple stages and a lot of time. There are multiple steps in the process, but they can all be completed in one appointment. A few hours is all you need.
- There will be anesthetic. Root canals were a lot more painful in the past, but nowadays, there are various forms of anesthesia that can help numb the pain. In fact, you shouldn’t feel any more than a needle prick. Your dentist may also give you antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection as well as painkillers, so you shouldn’t be in too much pain.
- You can save your tooth. Another good thing about a root canal is that you can save your tooth in the process. Even if it is inflamed and damaged, a root canal will remove the bacteria and keep the infection at bay. The dentist will then remove the pulp and seal up the tooth to prevent further damage. Saving your tooth is a lot easier and less expensive than having to get a dental implant. Plus, having an empty space in your mouth can affect your other teeth as well.
- They don’t cost as much as you think. Root canals are often covered by dental insurance, to some degree. You may have to pay a little out of pocket, but it will be much better than having to get a dental implant, which can cost thousands of dollars and is not covered by insurance.
- Discuss your fears with your dentist. If you still have anxiety about a root canal, talk to your dentist. Ask questions and let them know your concerns. You are not the first person to be nervous about a root canal and you won’t be the last. Don’t feel as though you have to live in fear.
Contact Us Today
A root canal is a good way to save a tooth that is abscessed or infected. It’s no longer a scary procedure that you should be afraid of. Instead, embrace it as a way to end your pain.
If you are dealing with pain and infected teeth, see how Blue Sky Dental can help you. We’ll assess your situation and work to save any affected teeth. Call (604) 330-1605 or fill out the online form to schedule an appointment.