What is root canal treatment?
A root canal treatment, also called nerve treatment or endodontic treatment, is a procedure that needs to be performed when there is an infection or the threat of an infection in the root canal or the jaw bone around the root of a tooth.
Is root canal treatment painful?
Due to anesthetics a root canal treatment is virtually painless, especially if it is performed in time. It is possible to experience some pain after the treatment. This pain should disappear after about 2 days and can be surpressed with paracetamol or ibuprofen. You should avoid chewing on that side of your mouth for a couple of days or untill the tenderness has subsided. If the pain after the treatment persists, always call your dentist.
What happens when I don’t take root canal treatment?
When the nerve in your tooth or molar is infected, it is unlikely to heal by itself. If a root canal treatment is not performed, this infection will probably spread and the pain will become more severe. It might not be possible to save the tooth at that point. The alternative to a root canal treatment is to pull the tooth. In some cases this is the best solution. Also when pulling the tooth might be the best solution, it is still best not to wait too long. The spreading infection in the bone can cause a lot of damage and prevent the possibility of an implant. In general it is best to keep as much of your own teeth as possible, making a root canal treatment the best option.