The root canal is one of the most feared dental procedures for a lot of people. Say the word “root canal” and it conjures up images of scalpels, tunneling machinery and invasive surgery.
But is that really accurate?
It isn’t. The root canal is one of the most common dental procedures, and it’s not anything to be afraid of. In fact, it’s much more likely that it will relieve pain than cause it. And it’s not a surgery—it’s a regular procedure.
What Is a root canal?
A root canal is what is called an endodontic procedure—something done inside your tooth. It doesn’t involve anything external to the tooth itself. No removal of gum tissue or bone, no scalpels, no muss, no fuss.
The simplest explanation of a root canal is that it’s removal of dead, infected material from a tooth and a rebuild of the interior. When teeth become decayed, once the decay reaches the tooth pulp the tooth is going to go downhill rapidly. Root canals save people from having to show the gaps in their smiles. The infected pulp and decay of the tooth is removed, and the interior of the tooth where the pulp used to be is completely cleaned so it’s free of bacteria. Then the inside of the tooth is filled and a cap is placed over the top of the tooth.
Every part of this happens inside the tooth. The dentist is able to do a root canal without pulling out a scalpel or leaving stitches in uncomfortable places. Root canals have been common for a while now, and as time has gone on the dentistry profession has gotten more and more comfortable with it. A competent dentistry professional can pull off a root canal without issue.
Creating a smile that lasts
The biggest reason to opt for a root canal is to preserve a tooth instead of going for an extraction. If you want a smile that doesn’t have gaps and are willing to deal with a minimally-invasive dentist’s visit, this endodontic procedure is the way to go.
You still have someone working inside a tooth, removing material and cleaning what remains. But it’s not like a surgery, where you’re actually opening up or reshaping flesh and bone. Your teeth are different.
If you’re looking for help with a decayed tooth, or even if you just need a checkup, give us a call or come visit to schedule a consultation. We have the technology and the expertise to make sure your dental problems are taken care of. Rely on us—we’ll take care of you.
