Root canal therapy is a routine procedure that typically does not cause significant discomfort and usually goes without complications. Still, many people are afraid of the procedure and wonder whether antibiotics can replace the need for a root canal. In this article, we answer this question in detail and describe the root canal therapy.
Can Antibiotics Replace the Need for a Root Canal?
Antibiotics can never replace the need for a root canal. Oral antibiotics temporarily reduce infection and inflammation and can be used as a supplement to root canal therapy to prevent reinfection after the procedure. However, antibiotics do not treat the structural damage to the tooth caused by infection, nor do they magically replace decayed dentin, pulp, and nerves with new ones.
When your doctor tells you that you require root canal therapy, it means that:
- Decay has spread from the outer enamel of the tooth to its dentin, pulp, roots, or nerves
- The structure of the tooth is compromised, and food particles and bacteria can access its inner chambers
- The infection can spread to the gums, surrounding teeth, and the jawbone
Thus, if you decide to skip root canal therapy and use just antibiotics instead, it will inevitably lead to tooth loss, and what is more, can cause a life-threatening abscess.
How Can Root Canal Therapy Help
During the procedure of root canal, your dentist accesses the inner chambers of the tooth and removes infected and decayed pulp. When the tooth canals are clean, they are filled with a special biocompatible material and securely sealed to prevent bacteria from accessing the inner parts of the tooth and causing reinfection.
If the tooth’s structure is significantly weakened by infection, your dentist is likely to recommend placing a crown after the procedure. A crown is necessary to reinforce the tooth and prevent it from cracking caused by chewing and biting forces.
Root canal therapy helps save the natural tooth and prolong its function, which is always preferable to any artificial tooth replacement options.
Is Root Canal Therapy Painful?
If you are considering not undergoing a root canal because you are worried it will be painful, we are happy to reassure you. In the majority of cases, patients do not experience any sensations during the procedure, let alone pain.
Root canal treatment is always performed under local anesthesia, which completely numbs the procedure site. In fact, modern anesthetics are so effective that patients do not feel anything even when the tooth is being pulled. Also, the anesthetic dose can be adjusted during the procedure based on the patient’s needs and pain tolerance.
The injection of the anesthetic can feel like a pinch or a sting, but it lasts only a couple of seconds, after which the anesthetic takes effect within minutes.
In addition, if you experience severe dental anxiety, you can ask your dentist about sedation options. The majority of dental offices offer several types of conscious sedation that help patients relax and feel calm during the procedure.
The pain caused by the decay you are experiencing before the procedure will significantly subside immediately after the treatment, providing noticeable relief.
Get Root Canal Therapy at Valley Alder
If you require root canal therapy, do not hesitate to make an appointment with a reliable dentist at Valley Alder. At our dental office, we strive to create a friendly atmosphere and use modern diagnostic and treatment methods to offer our clients stress-free, reliable procedures. We are looking forward to your visit.
