You Would Rather Have A Root Canal

Have you ever heard someone say this? “I’d rather have a root canal than _____________.”

Root canal treatments have become associated with things that are unpleasant and painful. Admittedly, the old way of doing this procedure may not have been a joy, but we don’t do things the old way at the office of Hugh B. Rosenblatt, DMD.

We use modern tools and advanced techniques to make getting a root canal painless for our patients. Now, getting a root canal isn’t like spending a day at an amusement park, but it’s certainly not as bad as you might have been led to believe.

We’ll discuss how we can perform this pain-free procedure at our Boynton Beach, FL dentist office below (along with some tips for how you can avoid needing one).

Just remember that your teeth should not cause you pain. If they are, you should call (561) 877-3802 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.

Tooth Infections Are Why We Do Root Canals

Your teeth should not cause you pain. We know we just mentioned that, but it’s worth repeating.

When you have a tooth infection, it can hurt in a lot of ways. Some people experience a throbbing pain that ebbs and flows throughout the day.

Some people have pain when they try to bite or chew something with their infected tooth. Some people notice increased sensitivity to sweet, hot, or cold foods and drinks.

And some people experience all of these pains.

Many people could avoid the worst of these problems with a root canal treatment. Yet, too many people will put off calling their dentist until the pain becomes unbearable.

How Teeth Become Infected

Tooth infections occur when bacteria are able to reach the pulp at the center of your tooth. Pulp is a soft, connective tissue that can be found in the pulp chamber and root canals, which are the openings in your roots where nerves and blood vessels enter your tooth.

If the pulp becomes inflamed, it can cause the pain the many people experience.

The three primary ways teeth become infected are untreated tooth decay, traumatic injuries to the tooth, and untreated gum disease.

Tooth decay starts with bacteria eating away at the outer layers of the tooth. As your cavity grows, it can eat through the enamel into the softer layer of dentin and eventually reach the pulp chamber.

Traumatic injuries — such as a broken or cracked tooth — can create a similar opportunity for bacteria. When this happens, it is effectively a shortcut for bacteria to reach the innermost parts of your tooth.

As gum disease advances, your gums can recede, which allows plaque and tartar to form on the roots of your teeth. From there, bacteria can eat into your roots, where it can reach your root canals.

What Happens During A Root Canal Treatment?

First and foremost, know that your comfort is always one our top priorities at Dr. Rosenblatt’s office.

Before we begin any root canal, we will be sure that your tooth is numb so you won’t feel anything during your procedure. If you are feeling anxious, we also offer nitrous oxide and oral sedation options. Both of these can block pain and help you remain calm and relaxed.

When we know you won’t feel anything, we then use advanced tools to create an opening in your tooth. This allows Dr. Rosenblatt to remove the infected tissue.

To help your tooth maintain its shape, we will fill it with a special mixture. The final step is sealing the tooth with a tooth-colored filling or a dental crown. This restores the natural appearance and function of your tooth.

How To Avoid Needing A Root Canal

We hope you understand that root canals are meant to alleviate pain, not cause more of it. At the same time, we know it’s better if your teeth never get to the point where a root canal is necessary.

That’s why we strongly encourage all our patients in and around Boynton Beach, FL to do three things. First, brush your teeth twice per day every day. Second, floss between your teeth at least once per day.

And third, visit Dr. Rosenblatt’s office for regular professional dental cleanings and exams. By doing all these things, you reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease. At the same time, if you do have tooth decay or a periodontal problem, this gives us a much better chance to find and treat it before a root canal is necessary.

If you have not yet scheduled your next appointment, call us today at (561) 877-3802 or fill out our online form. We hope to see you soon.