THE TRUTH ABOUT ROOT CANALS
Despite the frequency with which dentists perform root canals, many people harbor misconceptions about this common procedure. You too may have an unfounded fear of what occurs during root canal surgery and why a dentist serving Naples might recommend it. When you know the truth about this procedure, you can better understand the importance of it and feel at ease should your dentist decide that you might need it.
Root Canals Can Be Necessary
Dentists urge regular dental care. With consistent dental checkups, a dentist can find the early signs of tooth decay. If caught at an early stage, many cavities can be addressed with fillings. Should tooth decay progress, though, it can penetrate the interior of the tooth and damage the soft inner tissues. Once bacteria reach these tissues, root canal surgery may be the only treatment option, as medication cannot correct the destruction of the blood vessels and nerves inside the tooth. Rather, a dentist must extract these tissues and sterilize the tooth canal to alleviate the infection.
Root Canals Preserve Teeth
Should a tooth infection progress, it can damage not only the interior of the tooth but also its roots and the surrounding bone. When a person waits to get a root canal, it becomes more and more likely that he will require tooth extraction. Especially once the foundation of the tooth is no longer stable, a dentist may need to remove the entire tooth. A root canal can prevent widespread damage to the tooth and prevent the need for tooth extraction.
Root Canals Are Comfortable
Perhaps one of the most widespread misunderstandings about root canals is that they are painful. On the contrary, dentists have available a wide array of resources to ensure the complete comfort of their patients. Prior to beginning root canal treatment, a dentist can anesthetize the tooth and surrounding gums with both topical and injectable pain relief aids. For individuals who tend to get anxious about their dental care, a dentist can also offer additional relaxation services to ease nervousness. Outside of feeling some moderate pressure during the procedure, root canal patients can rest assured that undergoing this treatment produces no undue pain.
