Root
Canal
Just
the thought of that awful toothache signaling a trip to the dentist sends
shivers down my spine. Anyone who has experienced a tooth in pain knows exactly
what I am talking about. I don't mind the occasional cavity, gum check and
cleaning but I dread the root canal.
About
a month ago I began feeling a little soreness in my back tooth. It started after my six-month checkup and cleaning. At
first I thought it was just the result of an aggressive dental hygienist. But
when pain persisted I had my dentist take another look. He referred me to an
endodonist (the root canal specialist). I knew then that I was in trouble. He
spoke those fateful words, “you need a root canal!”
Over
my adult life I have had several root canals, none of which I enjoyed. I
vividly remember my first one. At the time I was pastoring a small church in
Minneapolis. As the pain increased I decided to go over to the church and pray
(we lived in the parsonage next to the church). I prayed like I never prayed
before. The harder I prayed for the Lord to heal me, the worse the pain. While
I was praying my wife called a dentist who happened to be a member of the
church. He came and took me to his office where I experienced the ultimate
healing, a root canal.
Modern
dentistry has eased some of my primal fears. I can't say that I look forward to
the regular check ups. I am still somewhat anxious and my blood pressure is
always high. However, considering the risk of more invasive dental procedures,
I yield to their wise counsel of brushing twice a day, flossing and semi annual
cleaning.
My
hope is that dental hygiene will ensure I keep my remaining teeth intact until
I see Jesus face to face.
