Root Canal Pain

Just the words root canal conjure up images of cartoons with bandages wrapped around their heads, feelings of pain in the jaw, or the sound of the dental drill whirring. These sights, sounds or images are the related to past dentistry. Modern dentistry allows for you to be more comfortable before, during and after the procedure with better results and more options than just pulling the affected tooth. Chances are, when you just mention to a friend or family that you may have a root canal treatment, it is likely that they have had an experience with a dental infection or root canal therapy. It is common, effective and more and more tolerable to experience.

What Causes the Pain?

The first reason most people are in pain prior to going to the dentist is from the infection. The treatment of the root canal therapy is not the original source of the pain. Most patients are uncomfortable from the side effects of the infection and inflammation near the nerve bundle and center of the tooth. The root canal allows the dentist to stop the infection, relieve the inflammation and to even strengthen the tooth and protect the tooth from future problems. Moreover, once you and the dentist decide on a treatment plan, you can also determine the best way to manage pain and keep you as comfortable as possible. Most patients find the experience to differ slightly from the discomfort from getting a cavity filled.

Tooth pain that will generate your call to make an appointment is usually caused by damaged or infected tissue. This tissue is in the center of the tooth and the inflammation from the infection causes pressure inside the tooth. The root canal therapy will remove this infected tissue and clean the area. The area will no longer be infected and the resulting pain will no long plague you. Although there will be sore or tender tissue and tooth for a few days, you and the dentist can discuss the best ways to alleviate the symptoms.

Isn't It Better to Just Pull the Tooth?

Most dentists agree that it is preferable to keep your natural tooth over removing it and replacing it. One of the best ways to address the infection and save your tooth is with a root canal. The body will suffer more stress from the permanent removal of your tooth rather than removing the damaged pulp.

After Care

Proper oral care and habits can help you keep your dentist visits to regular checkups and cleanings. When your dentist treats any infections and restores your mouth to good health, you need to follow up those steps at home to ensure the highest success rate possible. Brushing and flossing twice a day is the first way to keep your mouth as healthy as possible in between your twice yearly visits and cleanings at the dentist office.

Associated Costs

The total cost for each procedure will vary; the price will be determined by the length of the procedure, the materials used, the number of office visits, and the amount of work the dentist does. Dental insurance will help cover the cost of many procedures including the costs for preventative care as well as elective procedures as they often result in improved dental health. If you are questioning your payment options for your treatment plan, you are more than welcome to talk to our staff at any time. We want your budget is stay as healthy as your mouth.

More About Root Canals : What is a Root Canal?