Root Canal Treatment 101: How It Works and Why It’s Needed

Have the words 'root canal' ever sent a shiver down your spine? You’re not alone, many people feel anxious about this procedure. However, as a dentist who has performed numerous root canals, I can assure you that this treatment is frequently misunderstood. In reality, it is not nearly as daunting as it seems and can be instrumental in preserving your tooth, your smile, and preventing significant discomfort in the future.

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a procedure designed to repair and save a tooth that is severely decayed or infected. Inside each tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes infected, whether from deep decay, injury, or a crack, it can cause significant pain and swelling. A root canal involves removing the infected pulp, thoroughly cleaning the inside of the tooth, and sealing it to prevent further damage.

Think of it like cleaning out a wound. When you have a deep cut, you clean it well and bandage it to protect it. Similarly, a root canal clears away the infection inside the tooth and seals it to keep it healthy.

Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

You might be wondering, "How do I know if I need a root canal?" Here are a few common signs to watch for:

• Persistent tooth pain that won’t go away

• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers long after eating or drinking

• You can feel your heartbeat in your tooth

• Tooth discoloration (the tooth appears darker)

• A pimple-like bump on the gums near the painful tooth

• Tooth is so painful it can wake you up at night

Waiting can worsen the situation. If you notice these symptoms, it’s best to get checked sooner rather than later.

How Does a Root Canal Work?

A common question I hear is, "What actually happens during a root canal?" Here’s a simplified breakdown of the process:

1. Numbing the Area: First, we make sure you’re comfortable by numbing the area with a local anesthetic, so you won’t feel any pain.

2. Removing the Infected Pulp: We then create a small opening in the top of the tooth to remove the infected pulp, the source of the pain.

3. Cleaning and Shaping the Canals: After the pulp is removed, we clean and shape the inside of the tooth to prepare it for the next step.

4. Filling and Sealing the Tooth: The tooth is then filled with a special material and sealed to prevent future infections.

5. Final Restoration: Next appointment we place a crown over the tooth to strengthen it and restore its natural appearance.

The process is simpler than most people expect.

Why Choose a Root Canal Over an Extraction?

A question I often hear is, "Why not just pull the tooth?" While extraction may be necessary in some cases, preserving your natural tooth is almost always the better option. Here’s why:

• Keeping Your Tooth: Nothing functions quite like your natural tooth. Saving it allows you to continue chewing, biting, and smiling just as you always have.

• Avoiding Costly Treatments: If you remove the tooth, you may eventually need a replacement such as a dental implant or bridge, which can be more expensive and time-consuming.

• Pain Relief: A root canal doesn’t just save the tooth—it also stops the pain.

• Your Bone: Without a root being in place, the bone will slowly shrink, become thinner, and lose density after it is removed. 

Root Canal Cons

We can’t go over the positives without pointing out the negatives:

• Up front cost: Root canals can be costly, but it’s a long term investment. In many, but not all cases, after the root canal you also need to have a dental crown placed on the tooth to keep it protected.

• While effective, they’re not 100% foolproof: Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment can become reinfected if proper oral hygiene is not maintained or an ill-fitting crown is made. However, with good care and a well sealed crown, a root canal-treated tooth can last several decades. 

• Sometimes multiple visits are needed: Root canal treatments can vary greatly in their complexity. Front teeth are usually simpler than back teeth because they have fewer roots. To fully clean the inside of the tooth multiple visits are sometimes needed. 

Debunking Root Canal Myths

There are several myths surrounding root canals. Let’s clear up a few:

• Myth #1: Root Canals Are Painful: Thanks to modern techniques and anesthesia, most root canals are virtually painless. The discomfort people associate with root canals is often from the tooth infection, not the procedure itself.

• Myth #2: It’s Better to Pull the Tooth: As mentioned earlier, preserving your natural tooth is almost always the best option for your long-term oral health. Pulling your tooth, depending on where it’s located, can be way more detrimental than helpful.

What to Expect After a Root Canal

After your root canal, you may experience mild soreness or discomfort for a few days, which is completely normal. Over-the-counter pain relievers will help, and sticking to softer foods can ease any tenderness.

Most patients report feeling immediate relief, especially if they’ve been dealing with tooth pain for some time. To ensure a successful recovery, it’s important to follow up with us for the final crown or restoration, this will protect your tooth for the long term.

If you’re experiencing tooth pain or suspect you may need a root canal, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to answer your questions!

If you don’t have a Dental cleaning set up yet you can contact our office! We have two locations. 

Epic Center (Downtown location):

(316) 751-5051

Founders Circle (East Location):

316-684-7531

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