What Your Dentist Wants You to Know About Root Canal Treatment 

When should you see a restorative dentist in Boca Raton? The American Dental Association urges everyone to visit the dentist twice a year to maintain good oral health.  

However, if you are experiencing unusual symptoms like tooth pain that worsens over time or tooth sensitivity, your dentist will evaluate your teeth and decide if you need root canal therapy.  

Unfortunately, whenever people hear ‘root canal,’ they back out. It appears root canals are notoriously associated with pain. So what is root canal therapy, and why are so many people scared of it?  

Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Therapy 

What Is Root Canal Therapy? 

Root canal therapy is a treatment designed to repair and preserve a tooth that is severely decayed or has been infected. There are several reasons why this happens. It could be because of a chip or a crack in the tooth, an inflamed or irritated nerve or dental pulp, an infected tooth caused by deep decay, or facial trauma.  

In this procedure, your endodontist will remove the infected and inflamed pulp inside your tooth. After removing the nerve and pulp, the now empty chamber is disinfected and sealed with a special material to retain the tooth’s integrity.  

What happens if a patient foregoes treatment? If a patient chooses not to undergo a root canal procedure, the infection could spread to surrounding tissues and form into an abscess.  

It’s okay to remove the nerve inside the tooth because it doesn’t play an essential role in your tooth’s function and health. The only function of the nerve inside your tooth is sensory.  

Therefore, if the infected nerve is removed, your tooth will still be able to function. However, many people assume that the treatment is painful, which is why they don’t want to go through with it. On the contrary, the procedure aims to relieve you from pain caused by the infection.  

Why Do You Need Root Canal Treatment?  

Not every toothache requires root canal treatment. But, if you have these issues, your dentist will likely refer you to an endodontist for further evaluation. 

• A crack in your tooth caused by genetics or from an injury. 
• Problems with your past fillings. 
• A deep cavity accompanied by other symptoms like severe pain while biting or chewing, swollen and tender gums, darkening of your gums, and prolonged sensitivity to hot and cold. 

How Much Does It Cost? 

There is no exact cost for a root canal because it depends on the complexity of your case and if your insurance policy covers the treatment.  

Is It Normal to Still Feel Pain After Treatment? 

It’s not uncommon for patients to experience slight tenderness on the site for several days post-treatment. Some also complain of jaw pain. The pain in your jaw is because you have been opening your mouth the entire time during the procedure. The pain intensifies typically 17 to 24 hours after the treatment. Nevertheless, it can be managed by taking over-the-counter painkillers.  

Are You Looking for a Restorative Dentist in Boca Raton? 

Root canal therapy should be done by a licensed and experienced endodontist. At 5^th Avenue Dental, our goal is to transform your life by restoring hope, health, and your smile. We are proud to offer affordable restorative dental treatments tailored to your needs. Our practice is equipped with a caring and friendly staff who has your best interest in mind. Call us today to learn more.