When dentists broke the news that you are a viable candidate for a 'root canal,' you may have asked two raging questions: "Is it painful?" and "Why do I need it?"
It is perfectly understandable to have this repulsion from root canal treatment. After all, the name of the procedure itself sounds excruciating – both physically and financially. Truth is, a root canal is the safest way to alleviate the pain brought by internal infection and inflammation of the tooth pulp.
When the insides of a tooth become damaged by decays, injuries, and wrong placement of fillings, the nerves would start to degenerate. Over time, the tissues die and gangrene develops. As a result, you may feel more pain as the swelling persists. When not treated promptly, the infection may affect the bone supporting the root of the tooth.
The root canal then becomes vital in stopping the infection before it becomes worse. There is no need to worry about twinges and aches as recent innovations in dentistry made this particular treatment quick and pain-free.
When you need a root canal
The signs that point to the necessity of this treatment actually vary. Some patients may feel a sharp pain when pressure is applied to the tooth in cases of biting, chewing, or tapping. Others may experience lingering pain after the tooth is subjected to cold or hot foods. The symptoms may also manifest in the guise of abscesses and tendering of the gum tissues around the infected tooth.
Note, however, that the occurrence of these signs does not necessarily entail you to run to the dentists and request a root canal. It is imperative to observe whether the swelling goes away after some time. When the symptoms persist, it is high time to get professional help.