Do you need a root canal therapy to save your tooth? Does a root canal therapy hurt? You don't have to dread getting this procedure done. With the help of local
anaesthetic
to numb the tooth, you shouldn't have any severe pain during the procedure. You may experience some post-procedure discomfort, but nothing that an over the counter pain reliever could not ease. By focusing on turning your oral health around, you can take the worry and fear out of the experience.
Root Canals Therapy Saves Teeth
Root canal therapy is performed to save teeth. In Australia, this procedure saves millions of teeth every year. If the pulp (the soft tissue containing the blood vessels and nerves of your tooth) becomes infected or damaged, then a root canal therapy is carried out to remove the pulp and fill the root canal space. Signs of an infected pulp may include swelling, sensitivity
and
pain when you bite down or push on your tooth.
Once the affected tissue is removed by your dentist or endodontist (a dentist who
specialises
in the diagnosis, prevention
and
treatment of the dental pulp) you no longer have to worry about the pain and discomfort the infected pulp tissue can cause, or about the infection getting worse. The space the damaged pulp tissue occupied is filled with a
rubber like
material called gutta percha. Once the procedure is complete, usually after one or two appointments, you can see your dentist
to
have your tooth restored with a crown or filling. You will be able to resume your everyday oral habits, such as chewing, smiling, brushing and flossing and will likely be able to keep your natural tooth for the rest of your life, pending injury or other dental issues.
Numbing and Medication
According to Healthdirect Australia, most patients feel no more pain while a root canal therapy is being performed than they do with a normal filling. Before the procedure is done, the tooth and surrounding area are numbed to prevent the sensation of pain. For a few days after the treatment, you can expect some pain and sensitivity. Your dentist or endodontist may suggest pain relievers
to
ease any temporary discomfort. Pain that doesn't go away after a few days, or that returns months or even years after a treatment, is not normal and could be a sign of a new infection. If this happens, let your dentist know right away.
Does a root canal therapy hurt? With local
anaesthesia
, the actual procedure is not painful. Needing a root canal, however, can cause some discomfort. While the thought of having to get a root canal therapy may put you on edge, it provides a solution to a problem. Once your tooth is treated, take excellent care of your smile with daily brushing and flossing and be sure to see your dentist regularly.
