When you have a toothache, it can make life pretty miserable. You are willing to do almost anything to make the pain go away.

You immediately make an appointment with your dentist, hoping for a simple fix. Only, the solution isn’t what you expected, or what you wanted to hear.

If you’ve never experienced a root canal treatment, the prospect of having one can sound almost as terrible as an aching tooth can feel. But, the procedure may not be as scary as you imagine. And, it’s a lot more common than you might think.

The American Association of Endodontists shared results from a 2005-2006 survey conducted by the American Dental Association. They found that 22.3 million root canals had been performed that year.

Have you been told that you may need a root canal?

We’ve got the answers to the questions you’ve been wanting to know, but too afraid to ask!

Answers to 8 of the Most Common Questions Asked By Root Canal Patients

Want to find out what a root canal is, why they are performed, and if it’s really as scary as you may think?

The truth may surprise you.

We’re sharing the answers to those and other common questions that patients ask their endodontist below.

What is a Root Canal Treatment?

A root canal treatment is a procedure to save a tooth that has become badly decayed and unhealthy. During the procedure, the infected tissue, or pulp, surrounding your tooth’s nerve is cleaned out so that there is no further damage done to your tooth.

Why is a Root Canal Performed?

The area where the nerve is located is in a narrow passage that’s called a root canal. When this area becomes infected, it can be extremely painful. And, this can cause serious health problems if the area is not repaired.

Often, the unhealthy area will become abscessed due to infection. Many times, this leads to excruciating pain, which leads patients to seek treatment.relief

What Happens if You Refuse the Recommended Procedure?

If you don’t have the procedure performed, you may lose the tooth. The decay and infection are likely to spread, and may even result in additional tooth decay.

If the problem is not remedied in time, you could lose teeth that are close to the original source. But, you may have been more severe issues than noticeable tooth decay, or tooth loss.

Once tooth infection begins to spread, it can travel to other area s in your body wreaking havoc. In some cases, an abscessed root canal has led to brain damage or even death.

that’s why it’s imperative that you treat and resolve the infection as soon as possible.

How Long Does the Procedure Take?

A study published by the National Institutes of Health, conducted by dental student Amy Wong in 2015, found that most single root canals take less than one hour. She also found that procedures involving multiple root canals last an average of fewer than two hours.

Her exact findings report that the average time needed to perform a single root canal is 37 minutes and the average time for appointments involving multiple root canals is 73 minutes.

What is the Expected Recovery Process?

After your root canal appointment, you may experience minimal discomfort and swelling. However, this usually subsides within 24 hours.

Your endodontist may send you home with prescriptions, such as antibiotics and in some cases, medication to help reduce pain.

At the time of your appointment, the office will probably schedule a follow-up visit. If no complications are reported, you will return at that time.

It’s important to follow instructions that you may be given and keep in touch with your doctor if you experience any unexpected results.

Is it Safe?

The American Association of Endodontists reports that a root canal treatment is a safe and effective procedure that is successfully performed on millions of patients per year.

Will People Be Able to Tell That I have Had A Root Canal?

Other than possible minor swelling during the first twenty-four hours following your procedure, you shouldn’t expect any noticeable, physical signs to be present that would indicate you’ve had a root canal treatment.

Who Should Perform My Root Canal?

You will need to have your root canal treatment performed by trained dental professionals. Your dentist may refer you to an endodontist to have the procedure.

You may need recommendations for a dentist or endodontist who can help determine a treatment plan for you. If so, you may want to ask friends and family for referrals, check out online customer reviews, or look for a local award-winning dentist in your area. If you find an office that has been acknowledged for excellence, you may feel more confident going into your appointment.

Book an Appointment With Our Award Winning Staff Today

If you are concerned about your teeth, you shouldn’t wait to make an appointment. Putting off a necessary dental treatment may result in more extensive damage to your pearly whites.

You should have your teeth cleaned and cared for regularly to keep them in the best condition possible and stay informed about any potential issues.

Our dentists can determine what treatment is best for you. You can ask us any questions you may have, or request information about our services.

If you do need a root canal treatment, we will make sure that you are in good hands. Our team of dental professionals will give you the best care possible and make sure that you are fully informed and comfortable with your treatment.

Book an appointment with us today to keep your teeth looking and feeling their best!