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A root canal is possibly one of the scariest things one can experience in a dental house. While the purpose of a root canal is to improve your oral health, it doesn't make the procedure any less intimidating.
With over 15 million root canals performed each year, a good chunk of them involved patients feeling worried and scared. However, you don't have to feel pessimistic about root canals.
Your dentist may try to reassure you with details about the procedure, but it may not help to ease your fears. If you want to erase the negative feelings you have towards root canals, read on below so that you know what to expect.
The Root Canal Procedure
A root canal is a dental procedure involving removing the pulp and cleaning and sealing the inside of the tooth. Since the pulp of your tooth is highly sensitive, it can easily cause discomfort or even pain if not properly taken care of.
Root canals are performed to keep the tooth healthy and prevent further damage to the tooth or even tooth loss. The steps of a root canal vary with each patient. It all depends on the type and severity of your tooth problem.
Generally, though, the procedure follows these steps:
1. Preparation
After numbing the area around the tooth using a local anesthetic, your dentist will begin the root canal procedure. At this point, the dentist will drill out all the infected or inflamed tissue and clean the infected area.
Next, the dentist will begin shaping the root of your tooth. This is a very delicate and crucial process: the shape of a tooth affects the stability of the tooth, and the shape of the root determines how easy it is to seal the tooth after the treatment. Your dentist must make any adjustments to your tooth’s shape to ensure it remains healthy.
2. Cleaning
Next, the dentist will clean the inside of the tooth. During this cleaning process, the root canal procedure becomes a dental filling. The cleaned tooth is filled with gutta-percha, a rubber-like material that helps seal the tooth.
3. Sealing
Afterward, the root canal procedure is finished with the sealing of the tooth. The dentist will put a material called dental cement on it to help keep the tooth healthy and prevent it from decaying.
4. Warm Compress
Lastly, the dentist will apply a warm compress to your gums to keep them comfortable. You can then rest in a dentist’s chair and wait to see the dentist.
You may still experience the discomfort of the tooth, but having the pain caused by a toothache gone is a great relief. After your root canal, your tooth will be cancer-free and no longer exposed to decay.
Conclusion
Going to the dentist for a root canal doesn't have to be as scary as some think. With your dentist's expertise and your cooperation, the procedure can be made quick and painless. It's best to know what to expect before the process so that you can be prepared. As long as you set your appointment with a trusted, affordable dentist, you’ll have a successful root canal!
Are you looking for the best affordable dentist in Waterford to get your root canal? Then, you’ve come to the right place! At Dental House MI, we provide an environment for patients that is welcoming and personable while we create a healthy smile you will love. Make an appointment today!
