The term ‘root canal’ inspires fear, profuse sweating and even heart-felt prayers from the bravest of the brave. Visions of drilling, prodding, poking and more, flash before the unfortunate person’s eyes. A root canal probably occupies one of the top spots in the list of ‘top ten dreaded things’. In fact, for most people, a root canal would classify as torture!

But what is the reason for so much fear? Well, to begin with there are a lot of myths regarding root canals. People believe root canals are extremely painful. They expect numerous torturous sittings to get it fixed. Most people believe a root canal is only required when there is excruciating pain from the infected tooth. None of these myths are true. So before you start imagining the worst, let’s understand what a root canal actually is.

Every tooth has space within its roots. This space is known as the root canal. It contains the pulp chamber, the main canals and intricate anatomical branches that connect the root canals to one another or to the root surface. The term root canal is used for a dental operation where the pulp is cleaned out, the area is disinfected and the space then filled.

This brings us to the question; when do you need to undergo a root canal? The answer to this is quite simple. When your tooth gets a cavity that is so large that it reaches the tooth’s root, you may require a root canal. This is done to save the tooth and prevent it from being extracted.

A classic case of root canal normally shows the following symptoms:

1. Toothache:
•    Watch out for a tooth that is hurting or has been hurting for a while.
•    Pain may occur on eating or drinking hot or cold foods and liquids.
•    Pain could also occur when biting with the tooth. The tooth may be sensitive to touch, tapping or pressure. There may be slight swelling.
•    Pain begins in one tooth and moves on to other areas like your upper or lower jaw or head.

•    Pain could also occur for no reason. For instance, you may wake up at night because of the pain.

2. Discoloration: This means darkening of the tooth. Discoloration usually means there is a problem with the tooth canal.

3. Gum tenderness or swelling:
•    A classic symptom of root canal is gum tenderness with or without swelling in the adjacent tooth area.
•    There may be a bubble or swelling on the gum resembling a pimple. Pressing that region could release blood or pus.

4. Tooth abscess: This is a precise root canal infection symptom.

The only way to know for sure if you require a root canal is by making a trip to your dentist. Your dentist will look at your teeth and decide if you require root canal treatment.

When you have a root canal, there are only two options. One is root canal treatment and the other is tooth extraction. Do not take the decision to extract your tooth lightly. Even if the tooth is painful, try your best to save the tooth.