A root canal, also known as endodontic therapy, aims to repair a severely damaged or infected tooth. If you have extreme tooth pain, prolonged sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages, or discoloration of a tooth, your dentist may have recommended this procedure. To ease any anxiety about the appointment, here are some answers to the most commonly asked questions.

Common Root Canal Questions, Answered

What does a root canal procedure involve?

Root canals involve several steps to remove the infected tooth pulp from the tooth. After your dentist takes an X-ray to determine the extent of the damage, they’ll numb the area with a local anesthetic. Then, they’ll drill a hole and remove the pulp and damaged nerve with special tools. Once that’s finished, they’ll clean the tooth with root canal files and seal it with a rubber compound. You’ll eventually need to have a crown placed over the tooth to protect it from breaking.

Do root canals hurt?

Many people are reluctant to get root canals because they’re afraid it will be painful. However, the procedure actually helps relieve pain. With a local anesthetic, you should feel little to no discomfort while your dentist is doing the work. 

What’s the recovery process like?

After you get a root canal, your tooth may be sensitive for a few days. However, you can usually relieve the discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers, and you can resume your normal activities the following day.

Is it better to pull the tooth?

Keeping all of your natural teeth is ideal. They let you eat a variety of foods with ease and help you get the right nutrients. Getting the tooth extracted and replacing it with a dental implant or bridge is more expensive and may inhibit you from enjoying certain foods.

If you want more information about getting a root canal, turn to the professionals at Mammoth Spring Dental Clinic. The practice has been providing residents throughout northern Arkansas, southern Missouri and the surrounding areas with quality dental care for more than 30 years.  They go out of their way to make patients feel comfortable throughout every procedure. From oral exams to root canals, they perform every service with a smile. To schedule an appointment, call (870)-625-3262 or visit their website for more information about their offerings.