Most people have an intrinsic fear of dental procedures, and it is a common myth that root canal therapy hurts more than an extraction. A skilled dentist will try everything possible to save your natural tooth, which may mean relying on treatments like root canal therapy, also called RCT or root canal treatment. Always choose a reliable dentist in Midtown Manhattan, NY, for the procedure, and you will have no concerns about pain or discomfort. Before you go for RCT, here’s what you must know.
When you definitely need RCT
If you have a toothache that refuses to get better, the chances are high that there is deep decay in the affected tooth. A deep cavity can eventually impact the pulp inside of the tooth, causing inflammation. With root canal treatment, your dentist will remove the pulp and decay along with nerves and tissues, almost hollowing the tooth. There are other reasons your dentist may consider RCT, including an abscess in the gums or symptoms like sensitivity to hot and cold foods. You may also need the procedure when there is an injury to a tooth.
Will it hurt?
No, root canal therapy doesn’t hurt. Your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding gums, and while you may experience some discomfort keeping your mouth open for a long time, there is no pain. A patient who can withstand a routine extraction will not have an issue getting root canal therapy.
How many sessions are required?
You may need at least two or more appointments to get root canal therapy. After taking x-rays of the impacted/infected tooth, your dentist will use a local anesthetic agent, following which they will create an access opening to reach the root canals. To clean the canals and remove the pulp, tissues, and decay, the endodontist will use special dental files. In some cases, cleaning the tooth from the inside may take more than one appointment. Between the appointments, you will have a temporary filling on the tooth. Once the procedure is done, the tooth is cleaned from the inside and sealed using a permanent filling.
Do you need to get a crown?
Yes, a crown is usually recommended after root canal therapy, primarily because the tooth is now hollow and could break apart. A crown can restore the full functionality of the treated tooth.
You will need two more appointments to get a crown. Meet your dentist if you have other concerns related to RCT.
