When you hear the words root canal, you might instinctively cringe. For decades, root canals have had a reputation as one of the most dreaded dental procedures. The truth, however, is very different. Avoiding a root canal can have serious consequences for your oral and overall health. Instead of fearing the procedure, understanding what it entails and why it’s often the best course of action can help you make a more informed decision.
The Purpose of a Root Canal
A root canal is a procedure designed to save a tooth that is badly decayed or infected. When the pulp, the soft tissue inside your tooth, becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, cracks, or trauma, it can cause extreme pain and lead to abscesses. A root canal removes this infected tissue, disinfects the space, and then seals it to prevent future infection.
Rather than removing the tooth entirely, a root canal often preserves your natural tooth structure. This could not only help you maintain your smile, but also preserve your ability to chew and speak normally. Extraction might seem like a quicker fix, but it can lead to other issues like shifting teeth, jawbone loss, and the need for more expensive procedures like implants or bridges.
Avoiding Treatment Makes Things Worse
Delaying or avoiding a root canal can lead to worsening pain, more widespread infection, and even systemic health problems. Once the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected, it won’t heal on its own. The infection can spread to surrounding tissues, causing swelling in the face and neck, bone loss around the root, and even more serious complications if the bacteria enter the bloodstream.
In the early stages, a tooth that needs a root canal might be sensitive to heat or cold. As the infection progresses, you might experience persistent pain, discoloration of the tooth, or swelling. Waiting too long can mean the tooth is no longer salvageable, and what could have been resolved with a single procedure might turn into a more complex, costly problem.
Modern Dentistry Has Made Root Canals Easier
Much of the fear surrounding root canals comes from outdated ideas. In reality, advancements in dental techniques, technology, and anesthetics have made root canals as straightforward and manageable as getting a cavity filled. Most patients report that the procedure is no more uncomfortable than other common dental treatments. Dentists today use digital imaging to get a clear view of the tooth’s structure, rotary tools for precision and speed, and advanced materials to better ensure a lasting seal. Recovery is usually quick, with most people able to return to their normal routine within a day.
Preserving Your Natural Smile Has Long-Term Benefits
Keeping your natural teeth for as long as possible has significant advantages. A root canal often allows you to preserve your bite alignment, prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, and maintain jawbone strength. Once a tooth is extracted, the bone in that area begins to deteriorate, which can change the shape of your face over time.
Additionally, no artificial tooth will ever feel or function exactly like the one you were born with. Dental implants are highly effective, but they involve surgery, longer healing times, and greater expense. In many cases, a well-performed root canal could last a lifetime with proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
Root Canal in Asheville, NC
At Red Maple Dental, your oral health is our top priority. We always strive to preserve your natural tooth structure whenever possible, and a root canal could help prevent the need for extraction. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the procedure so you can face your treatment with confidence.