Can a Root Canal Really Save a Tooth?

graphic of aching tooth receiving root canal therapy showing how it can save a tooth from extraction

Severe tooth pain can disrupt your life. From eating to sleeping, it affects everything—and it’s a signal that something’s wrong. But before you think about tooth extraction, consider this: a root canal can actually save your tooth. That’s right! Far from being a dental horror story, root canal therapy is a straightforward and highly effective way to eliminate pain and preserve your natural tooth.

What Does a Root Canal Do?

Root canal therapy is designed to remove infection from inside your tooth. When the pulp (the soft tissue within your tooth) becomes inflamed or infected, it causes serious pain. If left untreated, the infection can spread, leading to more complications or even tooth loss.

During the Procedure:

  1. Your dentist numbs the area to ensure your comfort.
  2. A small hole is drilled to access the infected pulp.
  3. The infection is removed, and the canals are cleaned.
  4. The space is filled with a biocompatible material to prevent further infection.
  5. Depending on the situation, your dentist may place a temporary or permanent crown for added protection.

Is It Painful?

Here’s the truth: root canals have an undeserved bad reputation. Most patients say the procedure itself is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. In fact, root canals relieve the pain caused by the infected tooth!

Once the infection is gone, many patients feel immediate relief. Some minor sensitivity is normal for a few days, but over-the-counter pain meds usually do the trick.

Why Save the Tooth?

Your natural teeth are invaluable. Keeping your tooth intact helps maintain the alignment of your bite, prevents shifting of surrounding teeth, and preserves your ability to chew comfortably. Plus, a restored tooth with a crown can look and feel as good as new.

Root canals also spare you the need for more invasive treatments, like extractions or dental implants. It’s always better to preserve what you have whenever possible.

After Your Root Canal: What to Expect

Post-procedure care is pretty simple. Stick to soft foods for a few days and take it easy while brushing and flossing. Slight discomfort is normal, but most patients feel completely fine by the next day. Once healed, you can treat your restored tooth like the rest of your teeth—brushing, flossing, and eating normally.

Root Canal Therapy at Prairie Dental Group in Eden Prairie, MN

If you’re dealing with severe tooth pain, don’t wait! The team at Prairie Dental Group in Eden Prairie, MN, specializes in gentle, effective root canal therapy. Our highly skilled dentists make sure you’re comfortable every step of the way.

From the moment you walk through our doors, we prioritize your care and peace of mind. Let us help you preserve your natural tooth and restore your smile to full health. Schedule your appointment today—your tooth will thank you!

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Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0