A toothache is not only uncomfortable, it can also be scary. Patients often worry that a toothache means they will need tooth extraction. Fortunately, a procedure called root canal therapy can often save an infected tooth.

Call Marketplace Dentistry today to learn if endodontics root canal therapy is right for you.

What is  Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy, or Endodontics, is a process by which your dentist will remove infected pulp from inside your tooth and then seal it to prevent further decay. This treatment is used when your tooth has decay that cannot be fixed with a filling but is not so far gone as to require extraction.

What to Expect During  Root Canal Therapy

X-Ray: At your dental appointment, your dentist will use X-rays to get an accurate picture of how much decay exists in your tooth and plan treatment accordingly. They can also determine which form of anesthesia will be most suitable and how long the procedure might last – providing personalized care so you feel relaxed during this process.

Anesthetics: Oftentimes only a local anesthetic is required. You will only experience temporary numbness and will still be able to drive yourself to and from the appointment. However, sedation may be required in some cases which will impact your ability to drive and return to work the same day.

Procedure: During an endodontic procedure, your comfort is ensured as you’ll be numb and won’t feel any pain. Your dentist will gently drill a hole into the affected tooth to access and remove the infected pulp. After meticulous cleaning of the interior of the tooth, the void will be filled with thermoplastic materials, sealing it to prevent further infection. This comprehensive process effectively addresses the root cause of your discomfort while preserving the integrity of your tooth structure.

Antibiotics: After the endodontics procedure, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics as a preventive measure against infection. These medications help to eliminate any bacteria that may have been introduced during the procedure, reducing the risk of complications and promoting optimal healing. It’s important to take the antibiotics exactly as prescribed and to complete the full course, even if you start feeling better before it’s finished. This helps to ensure that the infection is fully eradicated and minimizes the chance of recurrence.

Why You Shouldn’t Fear a  Root Canal

Pain is Minimal

If you have never had a root canal, it is likely that your only knowledge of them came from a sitcom character complaining about getting one. While root canals, just like most medical or dental procedures, do have the potential for discomfort, they are not nearly as bad as one would assume.

Local anesthetics are used in order to eliminate pain during the procedure and over the counter pain medication can be used to manage any discomfort after. However, for most patients, the procedure is very similar to having a regular cavity filled.

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Root Canals Save Your Teeth

Along with being a relatively easy and painless process, root canals have the major benefit of saving your teeth from extraction. By protecting your natural tooth, you can avoid the issues caused by extraction which include tooth shifting, bone loss, and deteriorating gum health.

A dental implant can be used to stop tooth shifting and other issues but they are exponentially more expensive than a root canal. Though an extraction is the right choice in certain situations, a root canal is a preferred option when possible.

Schedule your Endodontics Appointment Today

At Marketplace Dentistry, we know that hearing you need root canal therapy (endodontics) can sound scary. This is why our team of dentists and hygienists ensure you get the best and most relaxed experience possible. Stop your tooth pain and get the care you need by scheduling an appointment today.

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