Each individual tooth is made up of roots, nerves, and a crown. Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatments, are procedures in which the dentist, or root canal specialist, will remove the decaying portion. This is the infected nerve and pulp of the tooth. They will then clean and seal the healthy portion of the tooth to protect it from future infection. Unlike a tooth extraction, the root canal treatment is performed to preserve the tooth, not entirely remove it. If you believe you have a decaying portion of your tooth, it may be time to contact your dentist for assistance.
Signs You May Need Root Canal Treatment
There are many different symptoms that can indicate whether or not you would benefit from a root canal treatment. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible to determine if you need treatment. First of all, you may have a persistent pain in the area around your tooth. This would be caused from cavity-like decay that eroded the protective layer of the tooth, ultimately making it painful to perform daily tasks.
This includes tooth sensitivity as well. Additionally, if your gums are swollen or bleeding around the same location, this could point to root damage. Your gums provide a protective barrier between the root of the tooth and external surroundings. Because of this, gums can become inflamed and painful if surrounded by a negative, decaying environment. Be sure to visit a dentist if you’re experiencing these uncomfortable symptoms of root decay.
What to Expect During a Root Canal Procedure
Before a root canal treatment, your dentist will take multiple x-rays of your dental structure. This will allow them to review the area and create a plan for the procedure. Taking x-rays also let the dentist prepare for any infections or decaying nerves that they might come across, as they can identify this by looking at the image. Once ready, the dentist will apply a local anesthetic to numb the area, as well as lay a rubber sheet in your mouth around the tooth.
The rubber sheet allows the dentist to identify the tooth that needs the procedure completed and separates it from the rest of the mouth for easy treatment. In total, the procedure may last up to an hour and a half depending on the severity of the damage. Once the dentist has completed the root canal, they will decide whether they will want to finalize the procedure during that visit or return to the area in a week or so. The latter is chosen if the patient has complex canals or a severe infection. If this is the case, the dentist will use a temporary sealing to protect the area from saliva and infection and proceed during the next visit.
Recovery
After root canal treatment, the oral area that was operated on may feel sensitive. If your dentist prescribed you with an over-the-counter pain medication, it is important to take them as directed in order to relieve any pain or swelling. If they did not give you a prescription, ibuprofen, which can be purchased at your local drug store, will have the same effects. To ensure that the tooth will remain healthy and treated and will not need any future work to repair, practicing proper dental hygiene and avoiding chewing or drinking any hot, cold, sweet, hard, or sugary foods, can speed up the recovery process and deliver the best results for your smile!
Get a Root Canal Today
Often times, people may avoid visiting the dentist for a formal dental treatment in fear of not being able to afford it. Thankfully, Inglewood Family Dental can promise a great, affordable price. We follow the 2022 Dental Fee Guide, meaning we’ll only charge you the governmental recommended prices for treatment. Stop living with daily pain from oral issues and contact us today for a consultation to determine if you’d benefit from a root canal!
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