Why Root Canals are Nothing to Fear
Why is it that people who aren’t very concerned with getting a cavity filled still dread the prospect of getting a root canal? It probably comes down to rumor and misconception. More than 15 million root canals are performed every year in the United States.
It’s a very common procedure, and the fact is, root canal therapy is virtually painless, as it has been for decades. Ramesh K. Sunar, DMD, at the Charlotte Root Canal Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, is an expert at saving his patients’ teeth with root canals.ns why it’s important to see an endodontist for your root canal needs.
Why root canals are necessary
You may need a root canal if the pulp — the soft tissue inside your tooth — becomes inflamed or infected. The pulp can get inflamed or infected for a number of reasons, including repeated dental procedures, decay, or a chip or crack in your tooth. By removing the pulp, Dr. Sunar can remove the infection and save your tooth from further damage.
What to expect during a root canal
An adult tooth can continue to function without the pulp inside. No matter why the pulp is infected or inflamed, a root canal involves removing the pulp.First, Dr. Sunar numbs the area around the affected tooth. Then he drills a small hole in the tooth to reach the pulp inside. Then he removes the pulp and cleans the inside of the tooth. Once the tooth is cleaned, he fills the empty space with a biocompatible material and puts a filling in the drill hole.Depending on where your tooth is and the condition of your tooth, he may put on a crown to strengthen the structural integrity of your tooth.
Root canal pain management
Before you undergo your root canal, Dr. Sunar will numb the area to make sure you don’t feel anything. Furthermore, the treatment area should stay numb for hours after your procedure. Your tooth may be sensitive in the days immediately following your root canal, and your mouth may feel a little sore overall, but you should be able to treat this with over-the-counter pain medications. If you feel severe pain after your root canal, contact the office immediately, as this is not common or expected.There’s nothing to fear about root canals. They’re not painful, and they will preserve your natural teeth, which in turn will preserve the health of your gum and bone tissue. To learn more about the benefits of root canals, book an appointment online or over the phone with the Charlotte Root Canal Center today.