Root Canal......YIKESSSSS!!!!?

Question

So, I probably need a root canal.....I'm VERY nervous about this!!!!! What happens after you get to the dentist's office? Is there any afterwards??

Answer 1

It's probably not as bad as you think.

Modern technology makes root canal therapy almost pain-free and you will save a tooth as opposed to pulling it as we always did in the past.

The process involves numbing the area completely (you shouldn't feel anything) and then exploring the canal of the tooth to discover the apex (end) of the root. The nerve and blood supply are removed and then a material is inserted to fill the empty space.

Now that there is no blood supply or nerve, the tooth is virtually "dead". That means it will become brittle in time and weak. After a successful root canal, the tooth should be covered with a crown which can strengthen and protect the tooth.

Yes, it's expensive, but having open spaces in your mouth isn't a good thing either. We live a lot longer these days, and we expect to be eating foods we enjoy, kissing, and talking long after our grandparents could.

Don't be nervous. You are investing in your long-term health.

Answer 2

I hate the dentist, but it's really not as bad as you think. The worse part is keeping your mouth open for so long. I have had several, but never with an infected tooth so maybe that makes a difference. If they have nitrious oxcide (laughing gas) - go with that. I had one root canal with that and I actually sort of enjoyed it.
Never had much pain after.