Don't Fear the Root Canal
Some years ago, the root canal procedure got a reputation of being close to medieval torture. Enduring the ordeal was a badge of honor. Nowadays, however, advances in technology have worked to lessen the pain and discomfort to levels similar to a regular filling. No big deal. Let us explain why we say that.
Root canals are a large part of the practice of endodontics. The word can be divided to reveal its meaning: endo = within, dontics = teeth. Inside that throbbing molar is a thread of inflamed pulp, which surrounds that tooth’s nerve and its blood supply. The pulp presses on the nerve and triggers the pain, which throbs with every beat of your heart.
Pick up your phone and call or text Sky Dental Malden at 781-870-0849 to get relief! Frankly, a root canal session is far preferable to enduring such ongoing misery.
Why We Recommend Root Canal Therapy
First of all, we want to save the tooth. If an abscessed tooth is extracted, that leaves a gap in the line of teeth. The teeth on either side of that gap will start to lean, affecting the way your ‘bite’ aligns and how you chew your food.
Secondly, please don’t leave an infected tooth untreated. The infection may spread and involve more teeth, or even move to your sinuses. Furthermore, Harvard Medical School warns that tooth infection and heart disease are closely related.
Lastly, if you’re concerned about the cost of an endodontic procedure, don’t put off a root canal for that reason. Sky Dental Malden accepts most insurances. We offer generous discounts for self-pay patients. And we have financing options available to suit your needs.
What Happens During a Root Canal Procedure?
When our highly trained dentists have assessed your tooth infection and recommended a root canal, the central area of the tooth will need to be accessed to remove the infection. The pulp and the decay are removed. Then, your dentist will clean the infection from the interior of your tooth, and seal the opening made by his instruments. He may fill to prevent further decay, or fit the tooth with a protective crown.
Basically, that’s all there is to it. As we said earlier, now a root canal visit is only a little more involved than a regular filling. You may have some residual pain in your mouth, but in a few days it will lessen and go away. Please call us if pain persists.