Uncover The Truth About Root Canal Treatment

Root canal therapy is one of the most misunderstood dental procedures, and there are lots of misconceptions associated with this treatment. Many people feel uncomfortable when they hear that they need a root canal, mostly because they think it's going to cause a lot of pain. However, thanks to modern dentistry, dentists have several methods available to prevent pain. Your dentist will never proceed with a root canal unless your mouth is completely numb and you feel comfortable.

Instead of causing pain, receiving a root canal actually relieves severe tooth pain. The procedure also lets you keep your natural teeth, preventing an extraction that could result in a costly procedure for artificial teeth.

When Is a Root Canal the Most Appropriate Treatment?

If the pulp inside of your tooth becomes infected, your dentist might recommend a root canal. The pulp is the soft tissue that contains nerves and blood vessels, and it extends deep into the roots of a tooth. Bacteria enter the pulp tissue when there is trauma to the tooth, the tooth is affected by a deep cavity, or if an existing filling cracks. To preserve the tooth and prevent an extraction, dentists remove the infected pulp. If it's not removed, the infection can spread to your jawbone or other areas of your body.

To prevent needing a root canal, it's important to see your dentist twice a year and brush and floss daily. If you can prevent tooth decay and other types of tooth damage, it's possible to avoid requiring root canal therapy.

Warning Signs That You May Need a Root Canal

While it's possible to experience no obvious warning signs, many people experience symptoms indicating they may need a root canal. These are the most common warning signs:

• Severe tooth pain that doesn't go away
• Gum tenderness
• Tooth discoloration, including a graying or darkening of the tooth
• Extreme tooth sensitivity that persists after eating or drinking anything hot or cold
• The tooth hurts when applying pressure
• Swollen lymph nodes
• A jaw or cheek swelling
• A foul taste in the mouth

Make an appointment with your dentist if you experience any of these symptoms. It's important that you don't delay treatment and allow your symptoms to worsen.

Questions to Ask Before Receiving a Root Canal

If you feel worried about receiving a root canal, asking your dentist questions about the procedure can make you feel more at ease. Consider asking your dentist these questions when discussing root canal treatment:

1. Can you preserve my tooth with a root canal?
2. Are there any other treatment options?
3. What is involved during root canal therapy?
4. How long will it take to restore my tooth?
5. How will I feel after my procedure?
6. What type of anesthetic will I receive?
7. Will my tooth be fully functional after the procedure?
8. Does the procedure have any risks?
9. How much does a root canal cost?
10. Will my dental insurance cover the procedure?

What Should I Expect During a Root Canal?

Your first visit to the dentist includes an examination of your mouth and x-rays. You'll also talk to your dentist about your dental history and any medications you're taking. If your tooth is badly infected, your dentist will prescribe antibiotics, and you'll return to the office for a root canal in several days. On the day of your root canal treatment, here's what you can expect:

Local Anesthesia

Before the procedure begins, you'll receive local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area. The dentist won't begin your treatment until you're comfortable.

Dental Dam

A protective sheet called a dental dam is placed in your mouth. This keeps saliva and bacteria out and isolates the tooth while your dentist is working.

Accessing and Removing the Pulp

Your dentist creates a hole in the affected tooth, typically on the tooth's chewing surface. This gives the dentist access to the tooth's pulp. Your dentist uses small dental tools to remove the pulp. After removing the pulp, the dentist cleans and shapes the canals.

Filling the Canals

After they're clean and dried, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. This material is heated to ensure it completely fills the canals. Then, your dentist places a temporary filling over the opening that was drilled near the tooth's chewing surface.

Placing a Dental Crown

Your restoration isn't complete until you receive a permanent dental crown. Crowns are made from impressions of your teeth. Since they're custom-made, it can take a couple of weeks to create your dental crown. Once placed over the treated tooth, crowns restore the full function of the tooth.

As you can see, it usually takes two visits to a dentist to complete root canal therapy. The main root canal procedure takes place during your first visit. You'll receive a permanent crown during your second visit.

How Will My Tooth Feel After Receiving a Root Canal?

Discomfort and mild pain are normal after your anesthesia wears off. Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever will help you manage pain, and most of the discomfort will last only a couple of days. If your pain is severe or lasts longer than a few days, call your dentist. Complications are rare as root canal therapy has a high success rate.

Root Canal Treatment Aftercare Tips

Follow these aftercare tips to help you heal faster and prevent any complications:

1. Avoid eating until your anesthetic wears off. This reduces your risk of biting your tongue or cheek.
2. Since your tooth will be sensitive before it's protected by a permanent crown, you should avoid chewing or biting anything with your treated tooth.
3. Maintain good oral hygiene but be careful around the treated tooth.
4. Don't smoke. Smoking affects your body's ability to heal and increases your risk of infection.
5. Follow the instructions provided by your dentist.

Root canal treatment doesn't have to cause fear. In fact, you'll likely feel much better after your procedure is over. If you're still feeling nervous, talk to your dentist and explain your situation.