Why Root Canals Are Essential for Dental Health

Many patients wonder about the benefits of a root canal and why it is important not to delay this essential procedure. It is natural to feel a bit apprehensive about a root canal, especially if you've heard common misconceptions or are concerned about discomfort.   About Root Canals A root canal is a common and effective endodontic procedure designed to treat infections within the tooth. It is a straightforward treatment with a high success rate. Root canals are necessary when the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected or inflamed. This often occurs due to decay or damage, which exposes the pulp chamber and allows bacteria and contaminants to enter. The procedure involves thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the root canal and pulp chamber to eliminate the infection and restore the tooth's health and stability.

Symptoms Indicating the Need for a Root Canal

You may experience one or more of these symptoms:

• Persistent, severe tooth pain 
• Pain upon biting or chewing
• Pain that subsides briefly then returns even worse
• Strong sensitivity to heat, cold, or sweet foods
• Swollen gums
• Pimples on the gums
• Discolored (gray or black) tooth
• Pain that radiates to other teeth or the jaw

The Root Canal Procedure

Before starting your procedure, your endodontist will take digital images using either an X-ray or a CBCT (3D Cone Beam Computed Tomography) scanner. These detailed images help us assess the extent of the infection and better understand the anatomy of your root canals. The next step is administering local anesthesia. Thanks to advances in anesthesia, the procedure is designed to be comfortable for you. Once you are completely numb, the endodontist will make a small opening in the crown of your tooth. Through this opening, the interior of the tooth, including each root canal, is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. After the infected material is removed, the tooth is filled with a biocompatible root canal material that seals out saliva and bacteria, reducing the risk of future infections. Depending on your specific needs, we will place either a temporary or permanent filling. Before you leave, you will receive detailed home care instructions, along with a recommendation to follow up with your family dentist for any necessary treatment to ensure the long-term health and protection of your tooth.

Helping Your Root Canal Last Longer

  Root canals can preserve teeth for a lifetime, often lasting decades with the right care. Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and seeing your family dentist at least twice a year is essential. Pay special attention to flossing around your treated tooth to keep it healthy.   To ensure the long-term success of your root canal-treated tooth, you may be advised to return to your dentist to protect the tooth with a crown. Research shows that molar and premolar teeth that receive crowns after root canal treatment have a significantly higher survival rate.   Tooth damage is a leading cause of root canal failure, so it's important to protect your tooth. Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth, and stay away from sticky foods that could dislodge a crown. Steer clear of habits like biting pens, chewing ice, or biting your nails. If you grind your teeth at night, consider asking your family dentist about a custom mouthguard to further protect your tooth.

Protecting Your Oral Health With a Root Canal

If your family dentist advises you to get a root canal, it’s important not to delay the procedure. Waiting will likely increase your discomfort, and as the infection spreads, the risk of complications rises. Delaying too long can allow the infection to spread to other teeth or lead to systemic health issues. You may even face the need for an extraction. In most cases, a root canal and crown are not only more cost-effective, but they also involve significantly less downtime and can be completed in much less time and fewer visits than an extraction and replacement with a dental implant.

Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals

Why is a root canal better than an extraction?

Root canals preserve the tooth by maintaining the natural root system, which is essential for keeping the jawbone healthy. The natural roots also prevent teeth from shifting and help maintain your proper dental bite.

Is a root canal uncomfortable?

With today’s advances in dentistry, root canal procedures are comfortable and pain-free, often feeling similar to getting a filling. Harmful misinformation based on a discredited, century-old study prevents many patients from receiving necessary care and endangers their oral health.

Call Perry Endodontics

If your family dentist recommends a root canal, it is best to seek the care of a board-certified root canal specialist, like the experts at Perry Endodontics. Our specialized care ensures your comfort and helps your root canal-treated tooth last for years to come. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, please call our Westfield, MA office at

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