We understand that needing a root canal can be a scary experience. It’s critical to remember that root canals are a well-liked and safe procedure that can assist you in maintaining your original teeth. In this blog post, we’ll go over everything you need to know about root canals, from what they are to why you might need one to how to prepare for it.

The Process Of A Root Canal

A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat a broken or infected tooth. During the process, the dentist cleans the root canals, removes any diseased or damaged pulp from inside the tooth, and then fills and seals the cavity. The pulp is the soft layer surrounding the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels.

Why Do You Need A Root Canal?

Root canal therapy is frequently required in cases of chipped or diseased teeth. A few causes of this include trauma to the teeth, a huge cavity, or shattered teeth. Uncomfortable symptoms, swelling, and, if left untreated, an abscess can occur if the pulp is infected or irritated. In many cases, root canal therapy is the best way to save a decayed or infected tooth and prevent extraction.

The Root Canal Warning Signs

Typical symptoms that suggest a root canal may be required include:

  • Discoloration of the tooth
  • Swelling and soreness in the nearby gums
  • Persistent sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, even after the cause of the toothache has been treated.
  • An inconspicuous bump on the gums next to the injured tooth;

If you experience any of these signs, it’s imperative that you see a dentist immediately. With the aid of an oral examination and x-ray, your dentist can determine whether a root canal is required.

Therapy For Root Canal

Your dentist will review the procedure with you and address any worries about whether a root canal is necessary. The method frequently includes the following steps:

  1. The dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding area.
  2. Removing the damaged or infected pulp: The dentist will make a small incision in the tooth’s crown and remove the damaged or diseased pulp from within the tooth.
  3. Cleaning the root canals: The dentist shapes and cleans the root canals using small instruments to prepare them for filling.
  4. Filling and sealing the tooth: The dentist will fill the tooth with gutta-percha, a material that resembles rubber, and then seal it.
  5. Placing a crown or filling: Because a tooth after a root canal is typically weak, a crown or filling can be necessary to provide support and security.

You may feel sensitive or unpleasant for a few days following the procedure, but this is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

How To Prepare For A Root Canal

If a root canal is in your future, there are a few things you can do to prepare. They are included:

  • Arranging transportation: You won’t be able to drive yourself home after the treatment because you’ll have gotten a local anesthetic.
  • Eating a small meal: You don’t want to be starving or stuffed during the therapy.
  • Taking any medication: Take any medication your dentist has prescribed precisely as directed before the procedure.
  • Bringing headphones or music: If you find the sound of the dental equipment upsetting, bring headphones and listen to music to take your mind off of it.

Tips For Taking Care Of Your Teeth After A Root Canal

You must take excellent care of your tooth after a root canal for it to heal properly. This consists of:

  • Avoid eating hard or crunchy items. You don’t want to risk pain or harm, and your teeth may be sensitive for a few days.
  • Upholding excellent oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Following the treatment, your dentist can suggest using a certain mouthwash for a few days.
  • Retaining a relationship with your dentist: If required, your dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure that your tooth is healing properly and to place a permanent filling or crown.

The Benefits Of Keeping Your Natural Teeth

Although the thought of a root canal may be terrifying, it’s important to remember that, wherever feasible, retaining your natural tooth is always the best option. Natural teeth help maintain the health of your jawbone and support the teeth next to them. Moreover, they are typically more durable and stronger than dental implants.

Extraction of the tooth may be necessary in some situations where a root canal is not possible. If this is the case, you can discuss replacement options with your dentist, like bridges, dental implants, and partial dentures.

Need A Root Canal? Contact Kitchener Dentist Sherwood Dental Now

Kitchener Dentist Sherwood Dental understands how important it is to provide you with the best care and maintain the health of your natural teeth. Contact our office immediately if you are experiencing tooth pain or other symptoms that could indicate the need for a root canal. Together with you, our talented dentists will provide the care you need to maintain pain-free, healthy teeth.

For an appointment or additional information about our services, please contact our office at 519-576-2170. We are glad to help you have a beautiful, healthy smile!

DISCLAIMER: The advice offered is intended to be informational and generic. It does not offer a definitive diagnosis or specific treatment recommendations for your particular situation. Any advice offered is no substitute for proper evaluation and care by a qualified dentist.