A root canal is a painless restorative procedure that can end a dental infection and the pain it causes so that the tooth can last and function well for many years afterward. However, you may not realize that you can still need this treatment even if you do not notice any oral pain. Here’s a brief guide to why a root canal may be necessary even if your mouth seems perfectly comfortable at the moment.
Reason Number One: Severe Pain Is Imminent
Dental enamel doesn’t have nerves, so you may not be able to feel a worsening infection until it has become severe. Many people go with extensive tooth decay without noticing it for long periods only for the problem to suddenly turn into a miserable throbbing toothache at the worst possible moment. If your dentist detects severe decay or enamel damage during your routine appointment, they may recommend root canal treatment to prevent this issue.
Reason Number Two: The Infection Killed Your Pulp
Some particularly stubborn individuals may suffer through an agonizing toothache for a long time only to find that it suddenly disappears. While this may seem like a cause for celebration, the truth is probably that the infection killed the nerve inside the pulp within the troubled tooth, meaning that it won’t be able to send distress signals to the brain. While this means that the tooth may never hurt again, it also means that the infection has progressed to an even more severe state and is still causing further damage.
In this case, a root canal may be the best way to end the infection and preserve the tooth. However, extraction will be necessary if the tooth cannot be saved.
Do Root Canals Hurt?
While you may have heard that root canals are horrible, this is a common misconception. Today’s root canals are rendered completely painless by local anesthetics, and you may also receive dental sedation to help you stay calm and comfortable if necessary. While you may experience some slight discomfort after the treatment, this will be temporary, easy to treat with over-the-counter pain medication, and downright pleasant when compared to the miserable agony that comes with a severe toothache.
Don’t let a false sense of security lead to horrible dental pain and tooth loss. If your dentist recommends a root canal, you can be certain that it is in your best interest.
About the Author
Dr. Wiese earned his dental degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry and stays abreast of the latest developments in his field through continuing education coursework. He is proud to serve as a member of the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, and the American Association of Implant Dentistry. His office in Sachse offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry such as root canals. If you suspect that you have severe tooth decay, contact his office online or dial (972) 992-1340.