Thinking of getting a root canal treatment?
While we know the process can feel intimidating, the good news is that you’re not alone.
In fact, more than 15 million people get root canals in a single year. Unfortunately, that number is nowhere near as high as the number of patients who actually need a root canal.
Sadly, 15% of patients needing dental care avoid treatment because of either dental phobia or misinformation about the procedures.
One of the best ways to overcome this fear? By educating yourself about what to expect out of your root canal treatment in Costa Rica. Read on to separate the fact from the fiction.
Why Do People Need Root Canal Treatment?
Before we speak in any specific about the procedure and what you can expect out of it, let’s first take a look at why it’s needed in the first place.
A root canal becomes necessary when the pulp (soft tissue) of your tooth is impacted by serious decay, a crack, or any other kind of infection. While in some cases, you may be able to see a serious crack or chip in your tooth, the real danger lies in what you can’t see.
Once that pulp has become inflamed, bacteria within the tooth grows at a rapid rate.
If you’ve noticed recently that your tooth seems especially sensitive to temperature, or if you’re simply dealing with pain? If your tooth has turned yellow or brown, or if your gums are especially tender?
You may be in need of a root canal treatment. It’s important to act quickly.
If you wait too long to get treatment, then the infection will only worsen. In some cases, you may even develop a tooth abscess. You could also be faced with severe swelling, the loss of bone in your tooth, and even complications with drainage.
What Happens During The Root Canal?
Now that you understand the main reasons why someone might need a root canal, let’s discuss what actually happens during the procedure.
In the simplest possible terms, the process of a root canal involves removing your nerve and the buildup of pulp around the tooth, then cleaning and capping the area around it.
We know that it might seem intense to have to have a nerve removed from a tooth.
However, it’s important to remember that the nerve only helps your tooth to feel certain temperatures and react to them. So, getting rid of the nerve won’t negatively impact the function or overall health of your tooth in any way.
Getting More Detailed
Let’s get a little more specific about your root canal treatment now.
Usually, you’ll need to go back to your dentist twice — though in some cases, you may be able to finish everything in a single visit.
First, your dentist will take several x-rays of your tooth to better identify the problem areas. Then, you’ll be numbed with local — not general — anesthetic. This means that you won’t feel a thing over the course of the procedure.
Next up, your dentist will cut a tiny entry point in your tooth’s crown — this is the way in which the pulp will be removed and the tooth will be cleaned. Your tooth and the root canal will also be reshaped, to make it ready for filling.
The tooth will be filled with gutta-percha and locked into place with cement, to ensure that no more bacteria can get into the tooth.
Usually, you’ll need to come back for a second visit so that you can have a crown put in. After that, your healed tooth will likely be as good as new!
What Should You Do Afterwards?
After your root canal treatment, we know that you’ll be thrilled to get on with your life without the pain and swelling of an inflamed tooth.
However, as with any type of procedure, you’ll need to be sure you’re following the proper rules to avoid damaging the tooth again.
Your dentist will likely tell you to chew on the opposite side of your mouth for a few days after the procedure. You may not be able to eat or drink for a couple of hours afterwards, either.
Make sure that you continue to brush your teeth correctly, taking care to be extra gentle around the area of the root canal. If you notice a problem with your crown or root canal, get in touch with your dentist immediately.
Why Go To Costa Rica For A Root Canal?
If you’re considering getting a root canal, then you might be surprised to learn about the world of what’s called “dental tourism.”
Think of this is a type of vacation where, in addition to hitting the beaches, you also give your teeth a serious upgrade.
Usually, people with dental issues will go to Costa Rica because of the higher quality of care and the lower prices on the work they need done. Plus, traveling to get dental work done also means you’ll have the recovery time you need built-in.
When looking for a dentist in Costa Rica, be sure that the dentist you want to work with does, in fact, accept international patients.
Ready To Schedule Your Procedure?
We hope that this post has cleared up the many misconceptions about root canal treatment, and has made you feel more comfortable with the procedure in the process.
Ready to book your dental vacation to Costa Rica?
If so, spend some time on our website to learn why our team at Advance Dental Costa Rica is the best option for you.
Whether you’re interested in a root canal, dental implants, veneers, or even teeth whitening, we have the experience and expertise to upgrade your smile.
Don’t spend another day in pain or in hiding. Instead, get in touch with us to schedule your appointment.
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