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Worried about your upcoming root canal? You aren’t alone. This common dental procedure has a bad reputation, but you have nothing to fear. In fact, modern root canals are painless. Read on to learn more.
Of all the dental procedures out there, few cause as much apprehension as a root canal. However, it really doesn’t deserve the negative hype. If anything, it puts a stop to any discomfort you’re feeling — immediately.
If you need a root canal, there’s an infection in the soft tissue at the center of your tooth, known as the pulp. This problem leads to numerous symptoms in the area, such as:
- Pain
- Inflammation
- Extreme sensitivity
- Pus leaking from the tooth
- Discoloration
Add that to the idea of having a dentist poking around, and the last thing a person wants to do is make an appointment. However, modern advancements in dentistry, including anesthetics and light sedatives, make the process painless, and it saves your tooth at the same time.
Dr. Prathima Rasamsetty at Preva Dental in San Antonio, Texas, prides herself on providing the most current advancements in dentistry available.
If you need a root canal, here’s why you don’t have to worry about your appointment with Dr. Rasamsetty.
How a root canal works
In most cases, people who require a root canal already suffer from inflammation, sensitivity, and pain. That’s because the infected tooth pulp contains nerves. Dr. Rasamsetty addresses this issue with a root canal, which removes the infected tissue and eliminates infection from inside the tooth.
The procedure begins with an anesthetic to numb the nerves, so you don’t feel a thing. You also wear a rubber dental dam that helps prevent saliva from touching your tooth during the procedure.
To perform the root canal, Dr. Rasamsetty drills a small opening in your tooth to reach the infected pulp. Then, she suctions the infected tissue and bacteria out of your diseased tooth.
Finally, Dr. Rasamsetty cleans the inside of your tooth and fills it with a rubber-like material. This step helps strengthen the tooth, and she seals the opening she made to perform the root canal.
What to expect from a root canal
In most cases, root canals take two dental visits.
During the first appointment, Dr. Rasamsetty cleans your tooth and places a temporary material inside it. Your mouth may be numb from the anesthetic for two to four hours, but you can often resume regular activity immediately.
At the second appointment, Dr. Rasamsetty changes the filling material to a permanent one. And, if your tooth needs extra protection, she could suggest adding a crown. This tooth-like cap fits over the treated tooth.
Why you shouldn’t delay a root canal
It’s normal to be nervous when facing a root canal, but Dr. Rasamsetty can guide you through the process before you even sit in the chair. The important thing is not trying to ignore a problem tooth. Doing that can put your tooth at risk or the infection can spread, making things worse in the long run and even increasing your chances of a dental emergency.
Rest easy knowing root canals are no longer painful, and you’ll have it behind you in no time at all. But if you’re still nervous about the procedure, don’t worry. Dr. Rasamsetty knows that dental anxiety is common and sympathizes — and she can help get you through it.
Do you have a problem tooth? Contact us to schedule an appointment. Dr. Rasamsetty will help you overcome your fears and save your tooth.