Root canal treatment, often simply called a “root canal,” is a dental procedure designed to save a tooth that is severely infected or damaged. The very mention of it can send shivers down someone’s spine, but with today’s advancements in dental technology and anesthesia, root canals are much more comfortable and less intimidating than they once were. Here’s everything you need to know about this common dental procedure.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected. During a root canal procedure, the dentist removes the damaged area of the tooth (the pulp), cleans and disinfects it, then fills and seals it. The common causes affecting the pulp are a cracked tooth, a deep cavity, repeated dental treatment to the tooth, or trauma.
Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
Several symptoms may indicate you need a root canal, including severe pain while chewing or biting, pimples on the gums, a chipped or cracked tooth, sensitivity to hot or cold that lasts after the heat or cold has been removed, swollen or tender gums, deep decay or darkening of the gums.
The Procedure
A root canal is generally performed in one to three visits. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect:
- X-ray – If a dentist suspects you may need a root canal, they will first take X-rays to examine the root canals and see if there are any signs of infection in a surrounding bone.
- Anesthesia – Local anesthesia is administered to the affected tooth. Contrary to popular belief, a root canal is no more painful than a filling.
- Pulpectomy – An opening is made, and the diseased tooth pulp is removed.
- Filling – The roots that have been opened are filled with gutta-percha material and sealed off with cement.
After the Procedure
It’s normal to feel some tenderness in the area for a few days after your root canal treatment as your body undergoes the natural healing process. This discomfort can be relieved with over-the-counter or prescription medications. You’ll need to minimize chewing on the affected tooth until it’s fully restored; most patients return to their normal activities the next day.
Root Canal vs. Extraction
Whenever possible, saving the natural tooth with a root canal is the best choice. Tooth extraction can lead to other dental issues, such as shifting teeth, difficulty chewing, and loss of jawbone volume. A root canal has a high success rate and many root canal-treated teeth last a lifetime.
Preventing Root Canals
The best way to avoid a root canal or any other type of dental treatment is through good oral hygiene practices, including brushing twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
Root canals have an undeserved reputation. With today’s advanced techniques and anesthetics, most people have little if any pain during the procedure. It’s a highly effective way to save your natural tooth, relieve pain, and prevent further decay or infection. If you’re experiencing dental pain or sensitivity call us at any one of our 3 locations or schedule an appointment here!
