Root Canals in Bend Aren’t as Scary as You Think!
If the term “root canal” makes a shiver of fear run down your spine, you’re not alone. Many people regard this treatment as the modern-day equivalent of medieval torture. But before your imagination starts equating your dentist to a black-hooded villain, let’s pause to take a closer look at root canals in Bend. You’ll discover that this procedure isn’t nearly as scary as you might have thought!
What Is a Root Canal?
When the innermost part of your tooth, the pulp, becomes damaged or infected, you can end up in a world of hurt. The goal of root canal therapy is to relieve your agony and restore your tooth’s function and strength. Here’s how the process usually works:
- The dentist will numb the tooth. You probably won’t feel any pain at all during the procedure. If necessary, you might also get to benefit from sedation dentistry in Bend, which will help you relax while your tooth is getting worked on. It may not feel like a day at the spa, but you’re unlikely to experience any discomfort.
- The dentist will use special tools to get inside the tooth and clean out the infected area. They’ll also remove the nerve in your tooth, which is what has been sending pain signals to your brain.
- The tooth will get filled in with a special material.
- In many cases, a crown is necessary after a root canal to protect the tooth against further damage.
Your mouth might be a little swollen and sore for a few days after your treatment, but mild painkillers may be enough to manage your discomfort.
How to Know if You Need a Root Canal
Some signs that you may need root canal therapy from your dentist in Bend include:
- Serious pain in your tooth, particularly when you bite down.
- Increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
- A tooth that is much darker than the ones around it.
- A pimple-like bump on your gums near the tooth that is hurting.
- Swelling or tenderness in your gums.
Still Don’t Want a Root Canal?
Some patients choose to have a tooth extracted rather than undergo root canal therapy. That’s a bad idea because while an extraction might seem simpler and less expensive, it can bring about some serious long-term consequences. For example, your other teeth may drift out of place because of the open space in your mouth. Plus, no one wants an embarrassing gap in their grin, and replacing missing teeth can be an expensive process.
Don’t let popular ideas about root canal therapy fool you! This treatment is nothing to be afraid of. In fact, it can save your tooth, relieve your pain, and help you get back to loving your smile.
