We get it–you’ve probably only heard the bad things about root canals. But, restorative dentistry isn’t all doom and gloom! In fact, it could be the only thing that saves the health and beauty of your smile.
At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, Dr. Matthew L. Bridges and his compassionate team take great pride in helping their patients repair and strengthen their smiles. If you’re ready to see why we are a favorite among Duncan, OK, residents, then schedule your appointment now. New and existing patients can send our team a message here, or they may call our office at (580) 255-4880.
In this post, we challenge what you think you know about root canals with this simple quiz. So, see how you do! You might be surprised to learn that root canals are no longer the fear-inducing procedures of yesteryear.
What is the survival rate of root canals?
- 50%
- 75%
- 90%
- 97%
Answer: D
Root canals are extraordinarily successful procedures that can help you keep your natural teeth for longer. In fact, clinical research suggests that root canal therapy has a survival rate of around 97%. So, while unsuccessful root canals do occur, they happen significantly less often than many patients think.
You don’t receive any pain management during root canal therapy.
- True
- False
Answer: B
Root canal therapy requires dental professionals to drill into an infected tooth and remove the contaminated material. This process can be incredibly painful without sufficient pain management, which is why root canal therapy is known for being a painful procedure.
At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, we believe that dental care should be comfortable. That’s why we take all necessary precautions to reduce pain during root canal therapy. With numbing agents, local anesthesia, and oral sedatives, we can help you save an infected tooth without sacrificing your comfort.
What do dentists use to protect teeth after root canal therapy?
- A dental filling
- A dental filling and a dental crown
- Gutta percha
- Gutta percha and a dental crown
Answer: D
In most cases, our team uses gutta percha and a dental crown to protect teeth after root canals. Gutta percha is a rubber-like material that our team uses to fill in the space left behind by removing the infection. In essence, the gutta percha prevents bacteria from entering the now-hollow space inside the tooth, which prevents future infections.
Then, our team uses dental crowns to completely encompass the compromised tooth. This further supports and strengthens the tooth, which allows patients to enjoy their natural smiles for longer.
How long does it take to recover from root canal therapy?
- Less than one week
- One week
- Two weeks
- A month
Answer: A
In general, patients can expect two to three days of mild discomfort following their root canal procedure. However, most patients can get back to their usual routines in less than one week after their treatment.
Ask Us If Root Canal Therapy Is Right for You
If you think that you might need a root canal, then don’t delay–schedule a consultation with Dr. Bridges now. Patients can call our Duncan dental office at (580) 255-4880 or they may submit an appointment request online here.
