Countless people put off scheduling their root canals in Lorain due to the fear that the procedure will be painful. In fact, one of the most common misconceptions about the procedure is just that, that it causes pain instead of relieves it. If you need root canal treatment and are anxious about what that entails, the best way to dispel that fear is to speak with your endodontist, as they’ll be able to give you a rundown of the procedure so you know what to expect—and pain is not in the cards! Read on to learn the honest and unfiltered truth about root canals and why they’re not as scary as people make them out to be.
What Actually Happens During Root Canal Therapy?
Root canals typically take place over the course of a couple of visits to your endodontist and dentist. The first step that they take is numbing your affected tooth and the area around it with a local anesthetic. Your endodontist will then create a small window in the top of your tooth so they can view the internal structures that are infected, like the pulp and root canals. Using their surgical microscope, your endodontist will remove all infected tissue from within the tooth and thoroughly sanitize it, making sure that no bacteria is left behind.
After the infected tissue is removed, your endodontist will fill the tooth with a malleable substance called gutta percha. This will seal off the inner portion of the tooth to keep it protected, as well as rebuild its structure.
Following your visit with your endodontist, you’ll visit your general dentist to help strengthen and restore your tooth by placing a custom dental crown atop it. This process can take between two and three visits, depending on the type of crown you receive.
Are Root Canals Painful?
In the past, root canals were executed without small, precise instruments and local anesthesia, making them no doubt uncomfortable. However, today, endodontists utilize the latest techniques and technology to make the treatment as non-invasive and comfortable as possible, including numbing the mouth in preparation for the procedure. Many people associate the pain that they feel from the infection, before they receive the treatment, with the pain caused by the root canal itself, creating the myth that the procedure is painful.
Is Recovering From a Root Canal Painful?
You’ll likely experience some discomfort and soreness following your procedure. However, most patients are surprised to feel much better than they did when they arrived at their endodontist’s office. Post-operative discomfort can typically be addressed with over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen, or your endodontist may prescribe you something. In any case, it’s usually not severe, and most people are able to return to their daily lives the next day.
Fear is a powerful emotion, so it’s no wonder why people are hesitant to schedule their root canal, even if they know that’s what’s best for them. Knowing what to expect can dispel the mystery of the unknown and help you power through the misinformation so you can enjoy a more comfortable, healthier smile.
About the Practice
At Parkway Endodontics, our team is comprised of two incredibly experienced, talented endodontists, Drs. Peyman Vaziri and Rachel James. Both have completed specialty residencies that make them experts at treating the inside of teeth, making them the go-to choice for patients experiencing toothaches. For questions or to schedule an appointment, visit Parkway Endodontics’ website or call 440-960-2660.
