Five Reasons Why a Root Canal in Norman Is Nothing to Fear

A root canal in Norman is a gentle, comfortable way to save a tooth that might otherwise be lost. Unfortunately, some people avoid dentist-recommended root canals due to misconceptions about this safe, effective form of treatment.

The best way to deal with these misperceptions is with a dose of the truth. With that in mind, here’s a look at why today’s root canals are light years ahead of yesterday.

Five Improvements That Make Modern Root Canals Better

Root canal therapy has advanced in five key ways over the last few years. These include:

1. Better files. Old-fashioned dental files were made of steel, a brittle metal which occasionally caused patient discomfort. Modern versions are made from nickel-titanium, which are not only stronger but more flexible.
2. Digital x-rays. Modern x-ray machines allow dentist to develop images in a tiny fraction of the time once required. This enables them to better see what’s going on in the patient’s mouth while using far less radiation in the process.
3. Fiber optic magnifiers. These work along with digital imaging devices to enable more precise treatment in less time.
4. Improved instruments. Are you one of those who gets uneasy every time you hear the sound of a dental drill? If so, then you should know that modern motorized dental tools are not only quieter but more precise. They enable your dentist to catch potential problem areas that might have been missed in the past.
5. Apex locators. The apex is the technical term for the endpoint of a tooth’s roots, which in the old days was sometimes difficult to find. Apex locators are designed to pinpoint this spot with absolute precision. This allows for more thorough treatment and less chance of complications.

Better in Every Possible Way

The five breakthrough advances mentioned above are only the tip of the iceberg. Today’s dentist are better trained than their predecessors, thanks to ongoing research and continuous education. The materials they use to fill root canals are more hygienic and less likely to cause allergic reactions.

The number of recent advancements goes on and on. Modern anesthetics eliminate pain during the procedure and wear off more quickly afterwards. Laser-based therapy is giving dentists an alternative to old-fashion hand tools. The difference to patient experience and outcome is like night and day. But the only way to enjoy these benefits is to see your dentist.

Why Even a Single Missing Tooth Is a Big Deal

One reason why dentists recommend root canals is that even a single missing can set the patient out for a lifetime of oral health issues. You see, your teeth were designed to work as a single unit. When even one is out of place, this creates unnatural stress that can ultimately lead to a chain reaction of tooth failure throughout your mouth.

Don’t let misguided fears make you miss out on the benefits of modern root canal therapy. Follow the advice of your dentist in Norman and you’ll look back on the decision with plenty of reason to smile.

About the Author

Dr. Bobby J. Carmen comes to Norman by way of the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry, from where he earned his DDS degree. Dr. Carmen is skilled in both general and cosmetic dentistry, enabling him to treat a wide range of dental conditions. You can reach his office online or by calling (405) 364-2200.