Let’s face it, root canal therapy has a bad reputation, but much of what you’ve heard isn’t true. Don’t let anxiety about the unknown cost you your tooth. Here are a few reasons you won’t regret root canal therapy.
Your Dental Pain Will Stop
A root canal is recommended to treat a tooth with an infection affecting the pulp, which is the innermost layer. A relentless toothache can occur from inflammation and infection in the nerve center of your tooth. Your discomfort will not go away without treatment. If your pain suddenly disappears, it likely means it’s too late to save your tooth and it will need to be removed. Root canal therapy will stop your pain and the infection to ensure your tooth lasts for a lifetime.
Avoid a Tooth Extraction
Every tooth is invaluable to your oral health and general wellness. Missing a single tooth can cause your jawbone to shrink by up to 25% within the first year. It will continue to deteriorate over time, changing the shape of your face and increasing your risk of various dental problems. A root canal will preserve your tooth, so you can avoid the complications associated with tooth loss.
Reduce Overall Oral Health Expenses
Extracting a tooth may save money initially, but it will lead to costly dental work later. You must have the tooth replaced. A traditional bridge must be replaced every 5 to 15 years, which can add up over time. A root canal is a cost-effective solution to lower your overall dental expenses because you won’t have to budget for replacements.
Pain-Free Procedure
New advancements in technologies and techniques allow root canal therapy to be pain-free. Besides a numbing medication, your dentist may also use sedation to keep you comfortable. You won’t experience any outright pain, although you might feel some pressure or unusual sensations. Your mouth may be tender for a couple of days after the effects of any medications wear off, but you can manage it with an OTC pain reliever and eating soft foods.
Enjoy Long-Lasting Results
Root canal therapy has over a 95% success rate. Your tooth can stay healthy for a lifetime with the right care, like brushing and flossing. Commit to visiting your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. They’ll examine your tooth at each appointment to look for anything concerning. With good oral hygiene and the care of a dentist, you won’t need to have the procedure repeated.
Don’t let rumors about root canal therapy prevent you from saving your tooth. Your dentist will answer any questions and explain the entire process, so you will know exactly what to expect on the road ahead.
About Dr. Abbie Coleman
Dr. Coleman earned her dental degree at the Medical University of South Carolina and has completed advanced training in many specialties, including sedation dentistry, restorative dentistry, and dental implants. Request an appointment through her website or contact her office.