Little Elm, TX dentist explains root canal myths and how to keep your natural tooth with root canal

Tooth pain is usually a warning sign of a problem. It often will not go away on its own. The pain may stem from decay or trauma. Root canal therapy is an option to preserve the health of your mouth. Although root canals come with a bad reputation and myths, the treatment is worth it. Located in Little Elm, TX, Dr. Suri and Dr. Tran explain how to keep your natural tooth with root canal treatment. This therapy comes with benefits to preserve your oral health.

Root canals are not scary

One of the main root canal myths is that the treatment is scary and painful. This has caused negative attitudes about root canals. Forget the misconceptions. A root canal is not intimidating. The treatment is performed to remove the decay or damage that is already present. This salvages the tooth and keeps the oral cavity healthy. The procedure is as routine as treating a cavity. The treatment itself does not cause you pain. It removes the damaged portion of the tooth that is causing your discomfort.

When a tooth is damaged or full of decay, it can lead to infections or inflammation. This causes the tooth sensitivity or tenderness you experience. If the infection leads to an abscess, facial or neck swelling is possible too. These problems will not correct themselves. If you experience tooth pain or facial swelling, it is important to seek dental care. Even if the symptoms subside, the underlying infection will not clear up and needs to be addressed by a dental professional.

Root canal treatment

When bacteria and infection are allowed to spread throughout a tooth, the inside pulp may become damaged. This often causes pain, especially when eating. If you seek dental attention early, the decay is caught and treated with a root canal to save the tooth. Left untreated, the bacteria continue to spread damaging the tooth beyond repair.

A root canal is not meant to cause you grief. Remember that your dentist’s goal is to help you keep your natural tooth and to keep your mouth healthy. During a root canal, the bacteria and dead tissue are removed to prevent further damage. The tooth canal is cleansed and sterilized. The tooth is saved. Your dentist uses a gentle, trained touch to ensure the procedure is as smooth and routine as possible.

Preserve your oral health

There are numerous health benefits to root canal treatment. Key points to remember include:

• The treatment itself is not painful.
• The tooth is saved. It is not removed, and neither is the root.
• A root canal removes bacteria from the tooth.
• With proper oral care, the effects of the treatment are long-lasting.

If your dentist has suggested a root canal, most likely you are already experiencing tooth pain due to infection or inflammation. A root canal is a routine, everyday procedure, similar to having a cavity treated and filled. The treatment is not painful. It rids your mouth of the bacteria causing the infection, relieves the tenderness in your mouth, and protects your oral health.

X-rays show your dentist the exact location and depth of the damage. During the procedure, any infected material is removed. This ensures the bacteria are eliminated and cannot spread or make you ill. Once the damaged area is removed, the tooth is disinfected and filled. Removing the damage relieves the pressure and discomfort. As the tooth heals, your symptoms should subside.

Your dental professional’s goal is to protect your oral health. This includes the teeth, gums, and the underlying structures of your mouth. A root canal saves your tooth rather than extracting or damaging it. The roots remain in place to keep the jawbone healthy and the surrounding teeth from shifting. Your oral and overall health are improved with root canal dental treatment.

A root canal is safe and effective. Once the tooth has been cleaned and filled, a crown is placed on top to protect the tooth. The crown helps keep the tooth healthy. With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, the positive effects of the root canal treatment are long-lasting.

Don’t believe the root canal myths. Ask Dr. Suri and Dr. Tran how to keep your natural tooth with a root canal treatment. Contact Frisco Elm Dental in Little Elm, TX. Call (214) 705-7100.

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Frisco Elm Dental

Dr. Vidya Suri

Dr. Vidya Suri is a dedicated and experienced dentist with over a decade of practice. She earned her dental degree from the prestigious University of California San Francisco School of Dentistry. She is a proud member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Dental Association, reflecting her commitment to professional excellence. Dr. Suri is passionate about creating beautiful smiles and improving patients' quality of life. Her practice is known for its accessibility, offering flexible scheduling and cost-effective treatments. Patients trust her for her compassionate care and expertise in both oral health and cosmetic dentistry.

Frisco Elm Dental

Dr. Tran

Dr. Tran brings over 15 years of comprehensive experience in general dentistry to our practice. He graduated from McGill University in Montreal, Canada, in 2006 and completed a residency in Advanced Education in General Dentistry at the Dental Branch in Houston. His commitment to empowering individuals towards healthier lifestyles, including dental health, underscores his dedication and trustworthiness. Dr. Tran is an active member of several professional dental associations, reflecting his expertise and authority in the field.