A root canal is a common dental procedure that removes infection, but they have a reputation for being very scary, painful, and complicated.
While they can be uncomfortable, they are also necessary to remove infected tooth pulp and prevent an infection from spreading and causing more severe dental issues. It is typically the only alternative to having your tooth extracted.
When Do You Need a Root Canal?
If an infection reaches the pulp inside your tooth, it may require a root canal to remove. But what can cause an infection to reach deep inside your tooth?
- An untreated cavity
- Tooth decay
- Repeated dental procedures
- Crack or chip in tooth
Common Signs You Need a Root Canal
It’s important to be mindful of any discomfort in your teeth and mouth. Dental discomfort can be a sign of any number of issues.
What symptoms should you look out for to indicate a need for a root canal?
- Extreme or lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
- Severe pain when chewing
- A deep chip or crack in the tooth
- Tender or swollen gums
- Darkening of the gums
- Discolored tooth
- Pressure on tooth
- Swollen jaw
What to Expect During a Root Canal Procedure
The first thing your dentist has to do is determine if a root canal is necessary. They will take an X-ray of your mouth to see the tooth’s condition. If more tests are needed, your dentist will check for any lasting sensitivity or discomfort. They will look for signs of swelling and ask about any pain you feel, especially when you bite.
They might also do an electric pulp test (EPT) to see how your tooth pulp reacts to electric stimuli.
Many people feel nervous before a dental procedure. However, knowing what happens during a root canal can help ease your worries.
Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how your root canal will go:
- Your dentist will first numb your mouth with a local anesthetic injection. They may also give you something to keep you calm if you are showing signs of dental anxiety.
- They will apply a dental dam, a thin piece of rubber, to keep your tooth dry during the procedure.
- Using a drill, your dentist will make a hole in your tooth to get to the pulp.
- The nerves, blood vessels, and tissues in your tooth pulp will be removed
- Once it’s all removed, the inside of your tooth will be cleaned and disinfected.
- The empty chamber and root canals will be filled with a rubbery material called gutta-percha.
- A temporary dental filling will be used to seal your tooth and prevent bacteria from reentering the tooth.
- Lastly, a crown is placed on the tooth to protect it. This might require another appointment since they have to be made.
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
A root canal is a routine procedure lasting anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes. However, in more severe cases, they may take longer.
Some additional factors that may affect how long your root canal takes are:
- The location of the tooth: Front teeth are quicker than molars since they have fewer roots and canals.
- The degree of damage: The condition of your tooth, the number of canals, and how severe the infection is can all make your root canal take longer.
The procedure should only take one appointment. However, you will need a second appointment for the final crown. Sometimes, another appointment is required in order to finish cleaning and sealing the root canals.
Recovery and Aftercare
Some discomfort may occur after the anesthesia wears off, but a root canal typically has no downtime. It’s important to wait until the numbness is gone before eating.
Do not chew with the affected tooth until the sensitivity goes away. This can take a few days. Stick to soft foods and avoid hot or cold drinks.
You can return to your normal activities right away and take over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen. Use cold compresses to help with any pain or swelling. Contact your dentist if your pain persists after a few days.
Remember to take care of your teeth. Brush and floss regularly. This will help prevent future infections and protect your new crown.
Benefits of Getting a Root Canal
Many misconceptions surrounding root canals lead to their bad reputation.
The lore of root canals is that they are painful and should be dreaded. However, with the use of anesthesia, they are no more painful than any other routine dental procedure. You may feel sore and uncomfortable after the procedure.
However, this only lasts a few days. There are many benefits that make the pain worth it.
A root canal is the only alternative to having the tooth extracted. Extracting a tooth is a longer, more painful, and expensive process. Saving your natural tooth will save you from needing an implant or denture. The procedure will also preserve your chewing, normal biting, and sensation while providing a better aesthetic.
Need a Root Canal? Trust Premiere Cosmetic & Family Dentistry
If you suspect you might need a root canal, an essential part of feeling comfortable is having a dental professional you can trust. There might be a million things you’d rather do, but the benefits of a root canal far outweigh the cons. This dental treatment is an effective way to preserve your teeth and will have you back to your everyday life quickly and painlessly.
Premiere Cosmetic & Family Dentistry is ready to help you regain your smile and feel your best. Schedule a consultation with us!
We’re currently accepting new patients!
