Have YOU Dreaded The Words “Root Canal”
One of the most commonly performed and important procedures in dentistry is a root canal procedure. An Endodontist usually performs this procedure, which is the removal of the natural cavity at the core of the tooth.
It is usually a decaying or slightly damaged tooth, that the root canal is performed on, in order to save it from pain and further damage.
After the tooth is cleaned, the pulp cavity is completely removed because it is harboring bacteria that is rapidly multiplying, due to being damaged.
There is really no adverse effects on the tooth from the removal of this pulp cavity, because its function of sensation transmission to the tooth implies that removal is acceptable.
A dental patient can begin feeling severely excruciating pain, if a root canal is not performed swiftly at this time, causing widespread tooth decay, and affecting the surrounding teeth.
THE MISCONCEPTIONS ON ROOT CANALS
A lot of myths and misconceptions have have been built up about the root canal procedure, causing people to avoid the dental clinic when they are in great need of the procedure. Below are three such misconceptions:
(1) Root Canals Are Extremely Painful
Somehow a misguided mindset has been built up in a lot of people that a root canal procedure causes more excreting pain than does the decay itself. This is an absolute misconception…excessive pain associated with this procedure is now a thing of the distant past, as modern dental technology has basically done away with the associated pain.
Once this now common dental procedure is over, the patient will feel much better, as root canals can now be done painlessly.
(2) Root Canals Usually Cause More Infection
After a root canal has been performed on a patient, infection can spread to other parts of the body due to tooth exposure, is another unjustified misconception. It has spread unnecessary fear in hearts over the years, and it is just plain wrong!
An undetected crack in the root, that left that area exposed, an inadequate restoration, or more than anticipated root canals are some of the reasons that a patient might get an infection after the performance of a procedure.
Today’s patients can rest assured that there will be no infection after a root canal has been performed, because off the modern, well-sterilized equipment that Endodontists use. Bring up any concerns or questions you might have when you visit a certified dentist, and no harm should ever come to you.
(3) Root Canals Are Unsafe For Pregnant Women
There are many things that may be deemed unsafe for women that are pregnant, however, a root canal procedure is NOT one of them! Having a baby that is deformed, or even losing g a baby is a fear that scares a lot of women away from an Endodontist visit.
This misinformed belief stems from the idea that the x-rays might affect the baby somehow, but once again this is simply NOT true! Only the oral cavity, not the stomach area, are x-rayed, so there is no need to worry.
The Endodontist always takes precautionary measures by shielding the fetus from the x-rays with a protective covering over the stomach.
The dental industry has evolved greatly over the past several years, so there is no real need to be anxious, even though the root canal procedure can be somewhat intimidating. A true dental professional is certain to take good care of not only your oral health, but also you. Call us today for an appointment.