At Cascade Endodontis in Orem UT, patients usually have a lot of questions for us before they settle into one of our chairs for a root canal. In this blog post we’ll discuss the things that all patients should know before the day of their procedure.
- Will It Hurt? This is easily the most common question patients have. Root canal therapy has long been associated with something akin to a medieval torture, but we can assure you that with modern dentistry has removed most pain from the equation. Most patients say they feel mild pain or discomfort dring the actual procedure. There may be a little more pain afterward, as you recover, but it can be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- What Exactly Is A Root Canal? Once patients are reassured there won’t be much pain at all, the next question usually is: what exactly is a root canal, anyway? When the soft tissue within a tooth becomes infected, it will be painful. The only way to treat it is to remove it, which is what a root canal is all about. Once it is removed the pain will be gone. The good news is that the tooth can be saved. The area where the pulp was is filled and the tooth is sealed. In most cases a dental crown is also necessary. That comes in a follow-up.
- The Sedation Option. For patients who are apprehensive about pain, we offer sedation. The options are laughing gas, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation. Laughing gas, also known as nitrous oxide, is effective and wears off quickly. With the other two options you’ll need a ride to and from our office.
- Recovery. As noted, over-the-counter medications can control any post-operative pain. You’ll need to be careful chewing at first. Most people are able to resume their ordinary lives the day after the procedure.
At Cascade Endodontics we have long experience with root canal therapy and sedation dentistry. Please call our office to schedule an appointment today.
Jon Jenson DDS
Cascade Endodontics
1375 E 800 N Ste 203
Orem, UT 84097
801-404-5810