Root canal therapy has a bad reputation. Many people believe it is a painful procedure with a significant failure rate. The truth, however, is that a properly performed root canal treatment should be comfortable — even totally painless. Plus, the procedure is consistently successful. Let’s discuss what you can expect with this potentially tooth-saving treatment.
No Reason to Be Afraid
In the past, root canal therapy could be quite uncomfortable. Today, though, modern dental techniques and technology have made the pain associated with this procedure into a thing of the past.
One of the first things a dental team does is numb the portion of the patient’s mouth where they will be working. The local anesthetic eliminates pain, but it does not prevent you from feeling pressure. Hence, you might feel some sensations in your mouth during the procedure, but pain should not be one of them. It is common for patients to compare getting a root canal with what they feel when they receive a small filling.
Many patients are also sedated during root canal treatment. The sedative induces a feeling of calmness and relaxation, meaning that it can help you to alleviate any anxiety that is related to your procedure.
Following root canal therapy, some soreness and sensitivity are to be expected. As long as you properly follow post-op instructions, however, you are likely to experience a smooth and relatively fast recovery. Once a crown is placed on the treated tooth, you should be able to use it freely as a fully functional member of your smile. The majority of patients enjoy successful treatment that provides them with decades of improved oral health.
Make Your Root Canal as Easy as Possible
If you are a little nervous about undergoing root canal therapy, there are some practical steps you can take to make the experience as easy as possible:
- Talk to your dentist. Feel free to ask questions about the procedure, and let your dental team know about any concerns you have.
- Abstain from alcohol and tobacco. These substances can contribute to inflammation and swelling. It is best to stay away from them for at least the last 24 hours before your appointment.
- Try to sleep well the night before. Well-rested individuals tend to recover faster and experience less anxiety than those who are sleep-deprived.
- Take pain medication if recommended. Your dentist might recommend that you take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication before your appointment to proactively manage swelling. You may also find it beneficial to take such medications after your procedure.
Root canal therapy is infamous for being painful — but it is actually an easy treatment to get through. Choosing a thoughtful and experienced dentist can make all the difference.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Makadia of Sunrise Dental Service has more than three decades of experience in his field. He places a high value on spending one-on-one time with his patients, and he oversees every aspect of each case to ensure the best possible outcomes. Root canal therapy and sedation dentistry are among the many services he offers. To learn more about him and our practice, contact us at 631-405-4390.