For many people, the idea of root canals is a driving factor behind their dental phobia. In truth, there’s not much to be afraid of. Advances in the dental field have made it an extremely simple procedure with minimal discomfort. Here’s a closer look to give you some perspective on this important dental process.

Why You Shouldn’t Be Afraid of Root Canals

1. You’ll be Anesthetized

During the procedure, your mouth will be completely numb. The dentist will open the tooth to reach the sensitive root chambers and clear the existing infection. Some patients report feeling pressure, but otherwise, there will be no pain thanks to the local anesthetic. In most cases, it’s extremely similar to a filling, so don’t worry about it hurting.

2. It’s the Best Solution to Your Problems

Infections are a serious issue and, when untreated, usually lead to a tooth extraction. A dentist’s goal is to always preserve the tooth, and root canal therapy is your best bet. Compared with oral surgery, it’s far less intensive and has a much easier recovery time. You also won’t have to deal with more complex and time-consuming cosmetic dentistry procedures like dental implants afterward to replace the missing tooth.

3. The Pain Is Over

Once you’ve received root canal therapy, your days of pain are over. The worst part of the issue is the initial infection. There can be excruciating pain in the days prior, especially when pressure is placed on the tooth. There may also be swelling, and if the infection spreads, the pain will only increase. The moment the dentist applies the local anesthetic, your pain is over, and you can count on enjoying a healthy smile afterward.

Whether you need root canal therapy or just a teeth cleaning, turn to S. Jill Spurlin, D.M.D. Located in Enterprise, AL, Dr. Spurlin takes every step to ensure her patients’ comfort. She maintains a state-of-the-art dental care office and uses cutting-edge equipment to get the best results. You can explore her practice further on her website or call (334) 475-2624 to schedule an oral exam.