Dental Clinic | Ang Mo Kio, Bedok, Jurong East, Tampines – Dental Implants & Oral Care Singapore
Most of us fear a root canal treatment due to claims about the level of pain and discomfort associated with it. However, having a clear and accurate idea of what this procedure entails can help to reduce any irrational fears and help to make the process bearable. These are some important facts about root canal treatment:
1. Pain subsiding does not mean you do not need root canal treatment
Pain is experienced when bacteria attack the tooth’s pulp where the nerves and blood vessels are located. Many will try to tolerate a toothache and delay going to the dentist. If the delay is too long, the pulp may die, and the pain can disappear, but infection will take place in the roots. This will further complicate things, which is why you should see you dentist as soon as you experience pain or discomfort instead of waiting for it to subside.
2. Taking antibiotics does not cure tooth infections
Seeking out antibiotics when experiencing a toothache due to an infection is very common. Unfortunately, the antibiotics cannot effectively reach the infection in order to reach it as it must travel through the bloodstream which is affected by the damaged blood vessels.
3. The procedure does not cause much pain
Even though root canal treatments have a bad misconception for causing pain, it does have multiple steps to reduce any kind of pain. You will be given a local anaesthetic to fully numb the affected area. Most patients claim that root canal treatment is not any more painful than filling a cavity.
4. It requires a healing period
While the treatment itself does not cause pain, you are likely to feel sore and uncomfortable afterward until it fully heals. Regular painkillers and sometimes medication to accelerate the healing process will be recommended by your dentist. Taking the necessary steps such as resting well, and consuming soft foods will accelerate the healing process. After a few days, many can return to their regular lifestyle.
5. Aftercare is important
Although a root canal treatment does save your tooth, it also weakens it. Thus, it is important to take extra care of that affected tooth so that it does not break or fall off. Ideally, your dentist will attach a crown for extra protection but relying on that alone is insufficient, you will still need to follow your dentist’s instructions to properly care for your tooth after treatment.
6. Root canal treatment does not make your tooth invisible
Root canal treatment and crowns often last over 15 years with good care and maintenance. This does not mean that your tooth is fully invisible from future damage cause by cavities or gum disease. Keeping the oral cavity clean and taking extra care of your teeth still needs to be part of your daily routine. Scheduling a visit to your dentist at least once every 6 months is required as well.
7. Saves you from pulling your tooth
Going for a root canal treatment will save your tooth. The only other alternative to treat infected or inflamed pulp is through extraction. Root canal treatment is highly effective and minimally invasive.
Overall, root canal treatment is still a good option to remove an infected tooth. If you are still hesitant on getting the treatment or want to explore the other option, feel free to contact us at 1728 Dental to book a consultation:
1728 Dental@AMK: +65 9631 1728
1728 Dental @Bedok Central: +65 8764 1728
1728 Dental@Jurong East: +65 9770 1728
1728 Dental@Tampines: +65 9725 1728
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