FAQs about root canals answered by our dentist
Are you worried about an upcoming root canal procedure? Do you have a few questions?
At Coptfold Dental, our dentist Brentwood has helped many patients to restore their dental health using root canals and can answer any questions that you have about the procedure, aftercare and longevity.
Here, our dentist Brentwood does just that and answers 5 FAQs that we receive about root canal procedures. So read on to learn more!
Does having a root canal hurt?
In a word, no.
Our dentist Brentwood will always ensure that your mouth is numbed before beginning a root canal and afterwards, we can advise you on the best painkillers to use to alleviate any discomfort.
Will it kill the tooth?
This is a bit of a yes and no answer.
When we perform a root canal, we are removing the infected pulp if you have had an infection. If you have had a trauma to the tooth, we will usually aim to remove the pulp as well to prevent it from becoming infected and to eliminate discomfort.
So, yes, in a way, it eliminates the pulp, but it also allows the tooth crown to stay in place and operate as the other teeth around it do, so no, it doesn’t kill the tooth but it prevents reinfection.
Is it better than an extraction?
There are many reasons to choose a root canal over an extraction if it is an option.
For one thing, it will not result in a gap in your teeth and will ensure that your smile remains unchanged. It also promotes better oral health; no gap in your teeth equates to nowhere for plaque to hide and cause problems with surrounding teeth.
And it may save on orthodontic work too. Once a tooth is extracted, the jaw shrinks and surrounding teeth may move out of line, causing problems with alignment.
So if you are given a choice by our team relating to either a root canal or an extraction, please choose the root canal!
Will I need aftercare?
As a general rule, no; there is no specialist aftercare associated with having a root canal performed.
But once you are at home, the area underneath the tooth is likely to feel sore and bruised; this is normal and should resolve on its own in a few days. If you have been planning to have your teeth whitened, you should wait for at least a month after a root canal to allow the area to heal.
If you are worried about the level of discomfort you are in after having a root canal fitted, please talk to our team.
How long will it last?
The good thing about a root canal is that if it is performed properly and if you look after it, it should last for the rest of your life without a recurrence of the infection.
By looking after it properly, we mean attending dental check-ups every 6 months, so our team can see the site and check for decay or other issues.
Of course, if you suspect that your root canal is failing or that there is a problem, please contact us immediately for an emergency appointment.