Uncover the Truth About Root Canal Treatment

If you’ve been told you need a root canal, you may feel somewhat nervous about the procedure. This common dental procedure is frequently misunderstood. Learn about the reasons why it is necessary so that you can determine if this is the treatment you need to address your dental issue.

When Are Root Canals Necessary?

Root canals are painless procedures that become necessary when the tooth’s pulp becomes severely decayed, infected, or injured. This can cause severe tooth pain, as well as lead to tooth loss if left untreated. If you see your dentist at the first sign of a problem, he or she will be able to save your tooth via a root canal treatment.

The Most Common Questions About Root Canals

If you suspect that you are in need of root canal treatment, you probably want to learn all that you can about what to expect. Here are some questions that you can ask your dentist about the procedure.

1. Am I considered a good candidate for this type of procedure?
2. Will I experience any pain afterwards?
3. Would a different type of procedure be better for my needs?
4. What happens during the procedure?
5. How long will it take to fully heal?
6. What kind of anesthetic will be used?
7. What risks are involved with this type of treatment?
8. How much do root canals cost?
9. Will my insurance cover the treatment?
10. Will my tooth be just as strong after the treatment has taken place?

Signs You Need a Root Canal

There are several symptoms that point towards a root canal being necessary. Many of these symptoms should not be ignored. If you have any of the following issues, you should get in touch with your dentist right away. The sooner you determine the issue and start your treatment the better your treatment outcome will be. Call you dentist right away at the first sign of any of the following symptoms:

• Persistent or severe tooth pain
• Swollen or red gums
• Teeth and gums that are tender to the touch
• Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold
• Tooth discoloration
• Severe decay
• A bump on the gums around the affected tooth

Your Step-By-Step Guide to the Root Canal Procedure

Once your dentist has examined your tooth, he or she may recommend that you receive a root canal. This step-by-step guide can help you learn what to expect throughout the entire treatment process.

Step 1 – Determine the root cause of your dental pain
Root canals are typically recommended when the pulp inside of your tooth becomes infected or damaged. If you are experiencing symptoms such as pain in the tooth, redness, or swelling, you should call an affordable dentist as soon as possible.

Step 2 – Beginning the Root Canal Procedure
Once it has been determined that you’re in need of a root canal, your dentist will apply an anesthetic to the area surrounding the affected tooth. This will ensure that your procedure is painless. After the tooth has been numbed, your dentist will create an opening in the crown of the tooth.

Step 3 – Removing the Root of the Problem
Your dentist will remove the damaged or infected pulp from the tooth using specialized tools. Once the pulp has been taken out, he or she will clean the inside of the tooth.

Step 4 – Filling the Tooth’s Canals
The next step of the process consists of your dentist shaping the tooth’s canals. After this has happened, he or she will pack the canals with a permanent filling.

Step 5 – Restoring the Tooth
When your dentist has finished, he or she will seal the crown of the tooth with a temporary filling. This will protect the tooth from future issues while your dentist fashions your crown.

Step 6 – The Crowning Glory
The final step in the process consists of returning to the office after your tooth has healed. At this visit, your dentist will place a permanent crown over the tooth to prevent damage or decay from occurring.

What You Should Do After the Procedure

Many people wonder what they can expect after the procedure itself has taken place. Read our helpful healing guide to be sure that your root canal recovery process goes as smoothly as possible.

What It Feels Like After a Root Canal

You can expect to feel some tingling or tenderness around the tooth for a few days after you have your procedure. Your jaw may also feel somewhat tender. In addition to this, you may notice that your tooth feels a little different than your other teeth for the first few weeks after your root canal has taken place. Any discomfort that you feel can usually be treated via the use of over-the-counter medications. If you notice symptoms such as severe pain or pressure afterwards, be sure to call your dentist immediately, as these could be indications of complications.

The Recovery Process

At the time of your root canal, your dentist will give you detailed instructions about how to promote healing at home. You should follow these instructions carefully, as they will assist you in healing quickly and fully. If you have questions, concerns, severe pain, discomfort or adverse reactions, contact your dentist. While each procedure and recovery is different, here are some guidelines that can help you heal:

1. Don’t eat until the numbness in your mouth wears off.
2. Refrain from chewing or biting in the affected area until the tooth has fully healed and been completely restored.
3. Carefully follow any instructions that your dentist gives you regarding medications.
4. Continue brushing and flossing your teeth as you normally would, while being careful around the affected tooth.
5. Let your dentist know if you have symptoms such as swelling, pain, nausea, an allergic reaction, or any out-of-the-ordinary symptoms.

Follow-Up Care

When your tooth has healed, you will return to the office to receive a permanent crown. This will be placed over the tooth and will keep it protected. You will make this appointment when you have your root canal. In addition to this, it is important that you still receive regular dental care from your dentist.