When your dentist informs you that you should undergo a root canal in Hamden, it is understandable if you are reluctant to consent to the procedure at first. After all, the media often portrays it as an unpleasant, painful experience. But did you know that root canal therapy is successful in the vast majority of cases, and most people who get it are happy with their decision to do so? In fact, one study by researchers in Sweden found that an overwhelming 87% of patients had no regrets about getting a root canal. Read on below to find out why you may feel similarly following this treatment.
The Pain Is Not Bad
Despite how root canal therapy is often depicted, it is not very painful. In fact, you are unlikely to feel much of anything while your dental team is working on your tooth. After your procedure, some soreness is normal, but the worst of the discomfort should begin to wear off within just a few days. Once a crown is in place to protect your treated tooth, you can expect many years of pain-free function from it.
The Results Last
There are varying estimates as to how successful root canal therapy is. However, most studies on the subject show that at least 90% of cases are successful. The majority of patients enjoy several decades of function from their treated teeth. In fact, it is fairly common for the results of the procedure to endure throughout a patient’s lifetime.
The Risks Are Exaggerated
There are a handful of naysayers out there who claim that root canal therapy can make you sick; some even believe that it can lead to the development of cancer. However, there is no reliable scientific evidence behind such claims. In fact, according to the study mentioned at the beginning of this blog post, a heightened health-related quality of life was noticed in individuals who started root canal treatment. The same improvement was not present in patients who chose to undergo an extraction instead.
You Can Save Money
Upfront, root canal therapy costs more than a tooth extraction. However, if you choose to get a tooth removed, you should get it replaced with a bridge or dental implant as soon as possible. Failure to do so could lead to future tooth loss and a number of other complications. Tooth replacement can be quite pricey. It is often more affordable in the long run to simply get root canal therapy and preserve your damaged tooth.
Your Smile Will Look Great
After root canal treatment, you will likely get a porcelain crown placed on your treated tooth. The restoration can blend in seamlessly with the rest of your smile, so onlookers may never know that you had to undergo some dental work.
At first, root canal therapy might seem scary, but it is a consistently successful, effective, and relatively comfortable treatment. The chances are good that you will be happy with your decision to undergo it!
Meet the Practice
The dentists at New Haven Dental Group in Hamden offer comprehensive oral care in a modern, inviting environment. Root canal therapy and several other restorative options are available here. To learn more about us and how we may be able to serve you, get in touch at 203-587-7327.