Recently had a dental infection? Need to have a root canal?
Our dentist in Waterlooville has fitted many root canals over the years and, when you come to us for the procedure, we will ensure it goes off without a hitch.
Here, our dentist in Waterlooville answers common FAQs that we receive about root canals.
Will the root canal procedure hurt?
In a word, no.
Our dentist in Waterlooville will ensure that the tooth and surrounding gum is numbed before beginning the procedure, so you won’t feel a thing.
Afterwards, you may experience a sensation similar to bruising underneath the tooth which is normal but, if the discomfort worsens, please contact us right away.
Will it kill the tooth?
There is not a straightforward answer to this.
The tooth will remain intact in your mouth and so, you will be able to use it for biting into and chewing food. However, during the procedure itself, the tooth will have the infection cleaned out, which in turn, will remove part or all of the pulp. This will cause the tooth to ‘die,’ but it will not change colour and will retain the strength that it had before the procedure occurred.
Are extractions better?
This is a difficult question to answer.
Many patients assume that extractions are better than root canals, due in part to myths surrounding having root canals performed.
However, there are several advantages to having a root canal, such as the aesthetic appeal (no gap in your smile) and hygiene-related benefits; no gap in your teeth, no place for plaque or bacteria to accumulate.
How long do they last?
Root canals are very hardy and with correct care can easily last the rest of your life without any problem.
Of course, the filling or crown that they are topped with can cause some issues if it comes loose or falls out. In this case, you will need to see our team for an emergency appointment, before decay sets in.
Also, you will still need to see our team every 6 months for check-ups and should maintain good oral hygiene at home to ensure that your root canal remains in place and that the tooth does not succumb to decay.
If you suspect that there is an issue with your root canal, please contact our team.
Are they expensive?
This is a common question that we receive about root canals and, in comparison to other dental treatments (or those associated with extractions), it actually works out as more affordable.
Suppose you were to opt for an extraction; you would then need to consider the costs of a restorative, such as a bridge or a denture if the removed tooth was located near the front. Or, you may want to look into oral implants to restore your smile, which is a lengthy process.
If it was located near the back, then you may wish to leave the gap as it is. But, as is the way with the jaw, if it is not holding a tooth in place, it begins to recede and surrounding teeth may move as a result, this in turn can lead to orthodontic work being needed.
Comments