You have probably heard someone compare an activity they were not looking forward to getting a root canal. Even if you have never had one, you almost certainly have an unfavorable feeling about the procedure.
Like many people, you might wonder if you should even bother getting a root canal.
You should get a root canal if your circumstances call for it. Here is more information about the procedure and why you should have it done.
What Is A Root Canal?
Essentially, a root canal is a procedure where the tooth is opened up, and the soft material inside it (known as the “pulp” of the tooth) is removed. Once the tooth has been hollowed out, the pulp is replaced with a synthetic material, and the hole in the enamel is repaired with a filling.
Why Get A Root Canal?
Usually, a root canal is necessary for a situation where the pulp has either died or is dying. For example, a tooth with dead pulp in it will eventually decay and die completely; as such, getting a root canal may be the only way to save it.
While you might think that a root canal is unnecessary—especially if the tooth looks acceptable to you—remember that you cannot see the pulp and cannot see its condition. By using an x-ray machine, it is possible to identify pulp that is dying or dead even before the outward appearance of the tooth is affected. In such a case, getting a root canal is necessary, even though the tooth might look okay.
Knowing this, you can see that getting a root canal is sometimes the only way to save the tooth. In addition, a successful root canal will let you use the tooth for years, so remember that the procedure is nothing to fear.