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Hearing your dentist simply say “root canal” may make you uneasy. However, this procedure gets an unnecessarily bad reputation and is often vital to preserve a tooth that might otherwise need to be removed. John P. Belbas, DDS, wants to quell your concerns about the treatment. As Lakeville, NY’s leading dentist since 1987, he’s heard plenty of questions about root canals and answers the most common ones below.

5 FAQs on Root Canals

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a procedure that extracts decayed pulp from the center of the tooth. Once removed, the dentist will then reshape the canal and replace it with a strengthened filler.

Why Do I Need One?

Root canal FAQThere are several reasons why a root canal is necessary for a patient. Severe decay and inflamed or infected tooth pulp are the most common culprits. A root canal might also be needed if the tooth has severe sensitivity to hot and cold elements, there is swelling or tenderness near an infected tooth, or the tooth was recently damaged, chipped, or broken.

What Happens If I Don’t Have the Treatment Done?

When severe decay is left untreated, it can reach the root of the tooth and cause major damage to the structure. In most cases, the tooth will need to be completely removed and replaced with a dental implant. Another risk is the infection spreading to another tooth, which may result in an abscess.

Is It Painful?

Many people expect root canals to hurt, but this is a common misconception. Modern technology and greatly improved anesthetics have made root canals as routine and pain-free as any other dental procedure, with patients typically experiencing little discomfort.

What Happens After Treatment?

You might experience some sensitivity in the treated tooth for a day or two following the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen are normally sufficient for patients who experience some discomfort. To completely restore the tooth, patients typically come back to the dental office for a crown or similar restorative method.

If you think you need a root canal, contact John P. Belbas, DDS, today. Call the dental practice at (585) 346-5220 to schedule your appointment, or visit their website to learn more about the procedure and additional services offered. 

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