Are Root Canals Safe?

Root canals are one of the most common types of dental procedures, often used to treat a badly infected tooth.

However, if you need to get one soon, you might be worried about how safe they truly are. There is some discourse that root canals might do more harm than good in the long run because they can allow bacteria to grow.

So, what’s the verdict? Should you ask your Naperville dentist for an alternative procedure?

Let’s discuss:

How Are Root Canals Performed?

Root canals are usually done in cases where the tooth is so badly infected that the bacteria has made its way down to the root of the tooth. It involves using a special tooth to remove all the decayed tissue from the inside, sterilizing the area, and sealing it with a filling or, in some cases, even a dental crown.

Usually, a tooth is left near-hollow following a root canal, which is why it needs to be reconstructed with crowns or fillings. This also means that the tooth doesn’t have nerves anymore, making it a “dead” tooth, for lack of a better term.

So, Is a “Dead” Tooth Dangerous? 

Because there are no nerves in the tooth anymore, the blood supply and the ability to fight off bacteria are essentially gone. This, in theory, means the tooth is at higher risk for infection if your dentist wasn’t able to properly clean it the first time.

However, it’s a rather unlikely scenario. Usually, if a dentist isn't able to remove all the decayed tissue, the patient will experience prolonged discomfort such as pain and swelling, which will warrant another procedure. It’s also common practice to apply local antibiotics to the tooth to fight the infection, and perform the root canal in multiple procedures to properly clean and disinfect a tooth.

As it stands, root canals, when done by a professional, are the best way to safely treat a large cavity or badly infected tooth.

Are There Any Alternatives to Root Canals?

Usually, if a tooth is so decayed or infected that it needs a root canal, the only other option available would be an extraction. Once the tooth is decayed, there is no way of bridging it back, and that tissue needs to be removed somehow.

If you’re not comfortable with root canals, you can opt for extraction. But missing teeth are also not good for your oral health in the long run, so you will need to consider replacement options like bridges or dental implants.

Think You Might Need a Root Canal? We Can Help

It’s understandable if you’re worried about needing a root canal, but we assure you Dr. Rohan Shah will help you make the best possible choices to restore your oral health, but now and in the long run.

Book an appointment at Washington Dental Studio today.