Why Do I Need a Root Canal?
Did you know that over 15 million root canals are completed in the United States each year? If you were told recently that you need a root canal, there is no shame in it.
However, getting a dental procedure of any kind can be scary. To help ease your mind, this guide covers what you need to know about a root canal.
Why Do You Need a Root Canal?
If you’ve recently been to the dentist and you need a root canal, there’s no reason to worry too much. Dentists will prescribe this procedure to save a damaged or diseased tooth.
A root canal works to relieve any discomfort you may be feeling and aid in your overall oral health.
Underneath the white enamel, there is a hard layer called dentin. Under that layer inside the tooth is the pulp, a soft tissue.
The tissue is made up of nerves, blog vessels, and other connective tissue. These things combine to help the root of the tooth during the development process.
A tooth that has been fully developed can survive without the pulp because the other tissues nourish it. Therefore, during a root canal, the infected pulp gets removed to save the natural tooth.
The need for removing a tooth through a root canal occurs for a variety of reasons. You may have a cracked tooth due to an injury, deep cavity, previous filling issues, or it may just be genetic.
What to Expect During a Root Canal
Root canals are similar to cavity fillings. This is one of the dental procedures you may have to come back for a second appointment. However, some dentists can complete a root canal during one appointment.
The amount of time it takes to complete the procedure will depend on the condition of the tooth and other circumstances you may have. The treatment is effective and painless.
When you undergo a root canal, you can reap these benefits in return:
- Chewing easier
- Normal bite
- Natural appearance
- Protection of other teeth
If you experience these root canal symptoms, you should call your dentist right away. You’ll begin to notice sensitive teeth, especially when consuming something cold or hot.
After fixing the infected tooth with a root canal, you can expect to head back to work right after. Although your mouth may be numb, it won’t affect your day-to-day duties.
The one thing it will affect is how you eat. A dentist will usually advise you to wait to eat until the numbness is gone completely.
Root Canal Cost
A root canal procedure will vary in cost depending on the complexity of the problem and which tooth is affected. Dental insurance often provides some coverage for these treatments.
It is important to note that molars are going to cost more to treat because they are harder to fix during a root canal.
Understanding the Root Canal
Getting a root canal is one of the easiest and painless dental procedures out there. The reason you need a root canal may be different from others who need one.
As a refresher, the need for a root canal is caused by injury, genetics, cavities, or filling issues. Understanding the root canal procedure will make the process more stress-free for you.
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