Caring for an Elderly Parent With Special Dental Needs
Everything You Need to Know About Root Canals
Joe Lawrence
If you’ve ever heard of a root canal, you probably know that it’s not something to be taken lightly. Root canals can be a scary and overwhelming experience, but they are also a necessary one for those suffering from severe tooth decay or infection. Unfortunately, many people put off getting a root canal because of their fear of the dental procedure. Read on to learn what root canals are and why it’s essential to see a dentist if you have one.
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a procedure in which the soft tissue of a tooth, known as pulp, is removed due to infection or inflammation. The pulp can become infected due to tooth decay or trauma. In a root canal procedure, your dentist will carefully extract the infected or inflamed pulp, thoroughly cleanse and disinfect the tooth's interior, and then seal it with a dental filling or crown to ensure the restoration of your tooth's health and functionality.
Why is a root canal necessary?
A root canal is necessary to save your natural tooth from extraction. If left untreated, the infection can spread and cause further damage, resulting in tooth loss. Additionally, an untreated infection can lead to more severe health issues, such as abscesses or bone loss.
Are root canals painful?
Contrary to popular belief, root canals are not as painful as many people think. During the procedure, your dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic, similar to the procedure for a regular filling. After the procedure, you may experience some mild discomfort for a few days, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief medication.
Why should you see a dentist if you need a root canal?
If you suspect that you may need a root canal, it’s important to see a dentist right away. The longer you wait, the more damage the infection can cause, resulting in more severe pain and complications. Your dentist will be able to evaluate your symptoms and recommend the best course of action, whether it’s a root canal or an alternative treatment.
Root canals may seem like a daunting experience, but they are a necessary one to save your natural tooth from extraction and prevent further health issues. If you suspect that you may need a root canal, it’s essential to see a dentist right away to evaluate your symptoms and recommend the best course of action. Remember, with proper treatment and care, you can preserve your natural tooth and maintain good oral health.
For more information on root canals, contact a professional near you.
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Caring for an elderly parent tends to be tough enough without the added stress of dealing with dental implants or dentures. But, the prospect is not the end of the world—there are many things you can do to ensure that your parent's dental health is not compromised without having to spend a lot of personal time doing the care yourself. Between working with the right dentist, hiring a service provider for part time work, and giving your parent the tools he or she needs to care for his or her own dental health at home, you'll find that dental health for your loved one isn't so tough or time consuming after all. Hopefully you are able to get the support and information you need right here.