If you’ve been told you need a root canal, it’s understandable to feel a little uneasy. Root canal treatments have an unfair reputation. In reality, root canals are a safe, routine procedure that can save your tooth and relieve pain. In fact, delaying or avoiding treatment can lead to far more discomfort and complications down the line.
Because of the procedure’s reputation, you may worry about what’s ahead, and it’s natural to have many questions. This might include: “Are root canal treatments painful?” and “What happens if I don’t get a root canal?”
We believe in taking a calm, caring approach to dentistry. We want you to feel informed, comfortable, and confident in your choices, and that includes understanding exactly what root canal treatment involves and why it’s so important not to put it off.
In this guide, we’ll explain all you need to know before your procedure.
A root canal is a dental procedure designed to remove infected or damaged tissue from inside your tooth. This tissue, known as the pulp, sits at the centre of each tooth and contains nerves and blood vessels. If it becomes infected due to deep decay, a crack, or trauma, it can cause severe pain and eventually lead to tooth loss or a dental abscess.
Root canal treatment involves cleaning out the infection, disinfecting the area, and sealing the tooth to prevent further problems. Thanks to modern techniques and local anaesthetics, the treatment is comfortable, highly successful, and far preferable to losing the tooth.
You may need a root canal if the soft tissue inside your tooth becomes inflamed or infected. Common causes include:
If left untreated, the infection can spread beyond the tooth and cause swelling, bone loss, or the development of a painful abscess.
Not all tooth infections are painful at first, but there are several signs to look out for:
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t ignore them. Get in touch with us as soon as possible. Catching the problem early can make treatment simpler and more successful.
Many people are surprised to learn how straightforward a root canal can be. Here’s what you can expect:
We’ll begin with a detailed examination, including X-rays, to assess the damage and plan your treatment.
Before we start, we’ll numb the area with a local anaesthetic so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. We’ll make sure you’re completely comfortable before proceeding.
We’ll carefully create a small opening in the tooth to access the infected pulp. Using specialised instruments, they’ll clean out the root canals, removing bacteria and damaged tissue.
Once the area is clean, we’ll disinfect the inside of the tooth and fill the root canals with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This helps seal the tooth and prevent reinfection.
In many cases, we’ll recommend placing a crown over the treated tooth to strengthen it and restore its appearance and function. This may be done during a second visit.
The whole process usually takes one to two appointments, depending on the complexity of the case.
This is one of the most common concerns, and we’re happy to reassure you that root canal treatment is no more uncomfortable than having a filling.
Thanks to modern tools, techniques, and anaesthetics, most patients report little to no discomfort during the procedure.
In fact, the treatment is designed to relieve pain, not cause it. If you’ve been living with a toothache, you’ll likely feel much better afterwards.
Avoiding treatment can lead to:
The longer you wait, the more complicated and costly the treatment may become. A timely root canal can save your natural tooth and avoid more invasive procedures.
After your appointment, you may feel a little sore or tender for a few days, especially if there was an infection beforehand. Over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen usually help manage any discomfort.
Tips for a smooth recovery:
Once fully restored, your treated tooth can last for many years, often for life, with proper care.
At The Briars, we understand that root canal treatment can sound daunting, especially if you’ve never had one before. But we’re here to make the process as comfortable, straightforward, and stress-free as possible.
We take time to explain every step of the procedure, answer all your questions, and tailor your care to your needs, whether you’re anxious about treatment or simply want to know what to expect.
Root canal treatment might not sound glamorous, but it’s one of the most effective ways to save a damaged tooth, stop pain, and restore your smile. The key is not to wait. Acting quickly gives you the best chance of keeping your natural tooth and avoiding more serious issues.
If you’re experiencing any signs of infection, discomfort, or damage, or if you’ve been advised to have a root canal and feel unsure, please get in touch. Contact us today to arrange your consultation.
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