Are you concerned about the pain associated with root canal therapy? Let’s debunk the myths and explore the reality of this dental procedure. Root canal therapy is designed to address issues like infected or damaged pulp within a tooth’s root, providing relief from pain and preventing further infection. Despite common misconceptions, the truth about root canals may surprise you. Read on to learn more about the pain, or lack thereof, associated with this dental treatment.
5 Signs That You Might Need a Root Canal
While tooth pain is a common signal for the need of root canal therapy, dentists also pay attention to other warning signs. Additional indicators that your dentist will take into account include:
- Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Swollen, tender, or red gums
- Chronic bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Pain when you chew or bite
- Gum bump near the affected tooth
- Tooth discoloration or darkening
- A cracked or chipped tooth
- Shifting teeth
- A loose tooth
- Severe tooth decay
- Intense tooth pain
Does Root Canal Therapy Hurt?
In the past, the prospect of undergoing root canal therapy often struck fear in many individuals due to worries about pain. Fortunately, with the advent of modern anesthesia and advanced dental technology, root canals are far less intimidating than they once seemed.
Before the procedure begins, your dentist will apply a local anesthetic to the area, ensuring that you won’t experience any pain during the treatment. In certain cases, dentists may also offer sedation to help patients relax. While you may experience some mild discomfort and sensitivity during the healing process, these can typically be effectively managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or those prescribed by your dentist.
This procedure not only guarantees a painless experience during the treatment but also provides relief from the pain caused by the tooth infection. By removing the infected or damaged pulp, which contains the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals, the source of discomfort is eliminated. As a result, patients typically experience significantly improved comfort after the treatment.
Why You Shouldn’t Put Off Treatment
While root canal therapy is generally not painful, certain individuals may still harbor concerns about undergoing the procedure. Nevertheless, choosing to forgo a root canal can pave the way for more severe oral health issues down the line.
If left untreated, the infection has the potential to spread to other areas of the mouth, leading to intensified pain and additional complications. It’s essential to address dental issues promptly to prevent more extensive problems in the future.
In the end, if an infected tooth isn’t treated with a root canal, it might need to be pulled out, which is a more invasive and costly procedure. Root canal therapy is a safe and effective way to treat tooth infections and is usually the better choice to keep your oral health in check and avoid further problems.
About the Practice
If you have a tooth that is severely infected and you are in need of care, the skilled team at 333 Dental Care is here to assist you. With four highly experienced dentists, they’re committed to helping you achieve a beautiful smile. They use advanced techniques and technology to provide safe and comfortable treatment for tooth infections. If you’re dealing with tooth sensitivity or pain or want to schedule an appointment with the 333 Dental Care team, you can visit their website or reach out to them at (580) 782-2552.