Journal of Oral Medicine Open Access

Root Canal Treatment: A Necessary Evil or Dental Redemption?

Marion Anema^* Department of Dentistry, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
^*Correspondence: Marion Anema, Department of Dentistry, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA, Email:

Received: 01-Aug-2023, Manuscript No. ipom-23-18048; Editor assigned: 03-Aug-2023, Pre QC No. ipom-23-18048 (PQ); Reviewed: 17-Aug-2023, QC No. ipom-23-18048; Revised: 22-Aug-2023, Manuscript No. ipom-23-18048 (R); Published: 29-Aug-2023, DOI: 10.36648/ipom.7.4.34

Introduction

Root canal treatment (RCT) has long been the subject of dental dread and horror stories. Mention the term, and many people shudder at the thought of the chair, the drill, and the associated discomfort. However, as someone who has undergone a root canal, I argue that it’s time to reevaluate this dental procedure. Root canal treatment, often perceived as a necessary evil, may just be the unsung hero in preserving natural teeth.

Description

To begin with, the common misconception surrounding root canals is that they are excruciatingly painful. While it’s true that the tooth undergoing the procedure may be sensitive, advancements in dental anesthesia have significantly minimized the pain associated with root canal treatments. Dentists employ local anesthesia to ensure patients are comfortable throughout the procedure. In my experience, the pain leading up to the root canal was far more unbearable than the treatment itself. One of the primary objectives of RCT is to salvage a severely damaged or infected tooth. Without this procedure, the only alternative is often tooth extraction. Losing a tooth not only impacts one’s appearance but can also lead to a cascade of oral health issues, including misalignment of neighboring teeth and difficulty in chewing. Root canal treatment allows individuals to maintain their natural smiles and preserve the integrity of their dental structure.

Critics often argue that root canal-treated teeth are prone to re-infection. However, advancements in dental technology and sterilization techniques have significantly reduced this risk. Dentists now use state-of-the-art equipment and follow stringent sterilization protocols, ensuring that the treated tooth remains infection-free. Regular follow-ups with the dentist are crucial to monitor the tooth’s health post-treatment, providing an opportunity for early intervention if necessary. Furthermore, the perception that root canals are time-consuming is outdated. Thanks to modern dental practices and efficient techniques, RCT can often be completed in a single or a few sessions, saving patients valuable time. The convenience of a relatively quick procedure, coupled with the benefits of preserving the natural tooth, makes root canal treatment a reasonable choice for those faced with the decision of extraction versus preservation. Cost is another factor that contributes to the negative image of root canal treatment. While it’s true that RCT can be more expensive than a simple extraction, the long-term cost of tooth replacement options, such as dental implants or bridges, often surpasses the initial investment in root canal treatment. Moreover, the value of maintaining one’s natural teeth, both functionally and aesthetically, cannot be overstated.

Conclusion

In conclusion, root canal treatment deserves a second look in the realm of dental procedures. As someone who has gone through the experience, I can attest that the fears associated with RCT are largely unfounded. The pain is manageable, the procedure is more efficient than ever, and the long-term benefits of preserving natural teeth outweigh the short-term inconvenience. While root canal treatment may not be everyone’s favorite dental experience, it certainly is a far cry from the dental nightmare many perceive it to be. Embracing the advances in dental technology and understanding the importance of preserving natural teeth, root canal treatment might just be the dental redemption we didn’t know we needed.