Root Canal Pain

Let’s divide this subject into two parts. There is the pain associated with an infected tooth, which if left unattended, can become intense, and then there is the hyped-up pain from the corrective procedure, which is far less then what you will experience actually. Let’s talk about contributors to both to attempt to clarify.

Every Tooth has the Same Parts

Your tooth has several parts. The outside hard white surface is called the enamel. The second layer is called the dentin. The part of the tooth affected by the savage root canal is in the center of the tooth. The soft tissue found here is the pulp. The pulp is in a chamber and then runs down the root. This soft tissue is full of nerves and blood vessels. The nerves monitor necessary sensation changes and the blood vessels deliver the nutrition to the tooth to keep it alive.

The Reasons behind a Root Canal Procedure

If you have an accident and crack, break or fracture a tooth that tooth is immediately more susceptible for infection. Your mouth is full of bacteria. The bacteria sits on the teeth in the form of plaque. If not removed this plaque will deliver the bacteria to the pulp and the infection sets in. Or, it can also be the culprit behind a cavity which will also yield the same negative result.

Infection and Root Canal Pain

The bacteria that gets into the pulp will soon create an infection and then become diseased. The tooth will create a severe toothache when chewing initially. It will become more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures and discoloration, or darkening, of the tooth will being. You will also develop swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums. The diseased pulp will create an abyss at the tip of the root which will bring more pain. If still not treated the infection will now spread. The next pain to address is the pain, or discomfort, associated with the solution.

The Pain Associated with the Root Canal Procedure Solution

Please understand that the short period of time you experience discomfort through the root canal procedure is the solution to the real pain. Once your dentist determines through an evaluation and x-rays which tooth is indeed infected a local anesthetic will numb the tooth to be restored. The majority of the time they will take all measures to keep your natural teeth versus extraction and a bridge or an implant to replace that tooth. Upon numbing the tooth a small hole is drilled at the top of the tooth and very small tools are used to remove the infected pulp. Once thoroughly cleaned a rubbery like material called gutta percha will be placed in the canal and the tooth sealed with a filling. In no time the real pain will subside and you will be back to normal.

Most of the time a crown placed over the tooth will be suggested to protect the tooth to enhance its life. With proper oral hygiene, it can last your lifetime and be pain free.

More About Root Canals : What is a Root Canal?