No one wants to hear they need a root canal; however, this procedure may be the difference between saving a tooth or having one pulled. Root canals are one of the most commonly performed dental procedures, yet many people are unsure what to expect. If you have an appointment with a Root Canal Specialist in Baltimore MD, it’s best to understand the procedure beforehand. Being thoroughly educated about the root canal will make the entire procedure less scary.
Why has a Root Canal?
Root canals are reserved for instances when the nerve of a tooth has become compromised or infected. When this happens, the patient will be in severe pain. The pain is usually the reason for the initial dental appointment. At this point, most patients are given two options, a root canal or tooth extraction. The main allure of a root canal is saving the tooth. For dentists, performing root canals is very common. In fact, it is the second most common procedure after a simple tooth filling.
Are Root Canals Painful?
The main stigma that haunts the root canal procedure is the pain. However, with the latest advancements in dentistry, root canals are usually pain-free. The toothache pain the patient had before the root canal is much worse than the root canal itself. The patient’s mouth will be completely numbed with a special medication before the procedure begins. Those who have undergone a root canal report that they feel no different than getting a cavity filled.
How Are Root Canals Performed?
During the procedure, the Root Canal Specialist in Baltimore MD will begin by drilling into the decayed tooth. They will then remove the diseased pulp and the inflamed nerve. Once the tooth has been thoroughly flushed out and sanitized, it will be filled with a rubber material and sealed shut. Most dentists recommend a permanent crown to cover the tooth, as it will be weakened by the procedure.
Once the nerve of a tooth has become infected by bacteria, a root canal is the only way to prevent losing the tooth. Understanding the procedure before your appointment will ease any worries. Root canals are very common and successful. You can read the full info here before your having your toothache examined by your local dentist.
