If you’ve heard anything about root canal treatment, it’s probably negative. Depictions in movies and on TV make it seem like a holdover from medieval times, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. If you’ve been told you need a root canal or have a tooth that is hurting (and getting worse), here’s why this procedure is actually good news despite its reputation.
Fast Relief
Nothing is better at making toothaches disappear than root canals. Typically, the most severe dental pain stems from an infection that has gone past the enamel and reached the sensitive internal tissue of a tooth, called the pulp. A root canal removes the source of the pain, so you not only feel great pretty quickly, but it doesn’t come back!
Shorter Treatment
Many patients just ask for their tooth to be extracted when they are recommended a root canal. The thing is, this is a much longer treatment process. Once the tooth is removed, it needs to be replaced, which can easily require several appointments to finish. With a root canal, it typically just takes two appointments: one for the procedure itself, and another to restore the tooth with a crown.
Less Expensive
Whether you have insurance or not, the cost of a root canal will almost ALWAYS be less expensive compared to removing and replacing a tooth. Preserving your natural tooth also lowers the risk of complications down the line. You don’t have to worry about your teeth shifting because there is a gap, or you don’t have to regularly replace the restoration that fills the space. Over time, getting a root canal can literally save you THOUSANDS of dollars.
In short, don’t believe everything you see on your screens. The biggest regret most people have after getting a root canal is not doing it sooner.
About the Author
Led by husband-and-wife dentists, Dr. Krysten Jackson and Dr. Eric Parsons, El Reno Family Dentistry is known for seeing patients quickly when they’re in pain. Just give us a call, and we’ll schedule you as soon as possible! You can reach us at (405) 262-6737 or click here to request an appointment.