Root canals can be scary for many people, but they are a routine dental procedure that can save your natural teeth. If your dentist has recommended a root canal, it’s important to understand what the process entails and what to expect. This article will discuss everything you need to know about root canals, including whether they hurt, how long they take, and whether they are dangerous.
Table of Contents:
What is a Root Canal?
Why Do You Need a Root Canal?
What to Expect Before the Procedure
What Happens During a Root Canal?
Do Root Canals Hurt?
How Long Do Root Canals Take?
After the Root Canal
Are Root Canals Dangerous?
Conclusion
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure to remove infected or damaged tissue from the inside of a tooth. The interior of a tooth contains a soft tissue called pulp, which can become infected or inflamed due to a variety of factors, including tooth decay, cracks or chips in the tooth, and trauma. The dentist will remove the infected or damaged pulp during a root canal. The next step is cleaning and sealing the inside of the tooth to prevent further infection.
Why Do You Need a Root Canal?
There are several signs that you may need a root canal, including:
Severe tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure
Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
Swollen or tender gums
Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
A pimple-like bump on the gums
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seeing your dentist as soon as possible is important. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to further damage or infection and may ultimately result in tooth loss.
What to Expect Before the Procedure
Before your root canal, your dentist will take x-rays of the affected tooth to determine the extent of the damage and plan the procedure. The dentist may give a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth, and you may also be given a sedative to help you relax during the procedure. Your dentist will also explain the process in detail and answer any questions you may have.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
During the root canal procedure, your dentist will make a small hole in the top of the tooth to access the pulp. They will then use specialized tools to remove the infected or damaged tissue and clean out the inside of the tooth.
Once the inside of the tooth is clean, your dentist will fill it with a special material and seal it to prevent further infection. Sometimes, the dentist will place a temporary filling until a permanent filling or crown is ready.
Do Root Canals Hurt?
Many people are afraid of root canals because they believe they are painful. However, modern dental techniques and anesthesia make root canals relatively painless. You may feel some pressure or discomfort during the procedure, but your dentist will numb the area around the tooth to minimize pain.
How Long Do Root Canals Take?
The length of a root canal procedure varies. It depends on the extent of the damage and the number of canals in the tooth. Generally, a root canal can take 1-3 hours to complete. Your dentist will give you an estimate of how long the procedure will take based on your situation.
After the Root Canal
You may experience mild pain or discomfort, but you can usually manage this with over-the-counter pain medication. You should avoid chewing on the affected tooth until it is fully restored with a filling or crown.
Your dentist will usually give you specific instructions on caring for the affected tooth after the procedure, including how to keep the area clean and when to schedule a follow-up appointment.
Are Root Canals Dangerous?
Root canals have a bad reputation, with some believing they can cause illness or even death. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. Root canals are a safe and effective way to save your natural teeth and prevent further infection.
Conclusion
When your dentist recommends a root canal, take some time to understand what to expect during the procedure. While root canals may seem scary, they are a routine dental procedure that can save your natural teeth and prevent further damage or infection.
If you are experiencing tooth pain or other symptoms of a dental issue, don’t wait to seek treatment. At Eastman Dental Group, we provide a range of dental services, including root canals, to help you maintain your oral health.
Talk to us if you have any questions or concerns about root canals. We can provide the information and support you need to make an informed decision about your dental health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile.