Root canal is a treatment used to repair or save a severely damaged or infected tooth. Root canal is an alternative to extracting the tooth. During root canal treatment, a dental expert works to remove the inflamed or infected pulp inside the tooth. It is then cleaned and disinfected before being filled and sealed. Root canal treatment eliminates bacteria, prevents infection, and saves the natural tooth.
Root Canal Treatment
What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is needed when the pulp of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including:
- Untreated cavities that have caused severe decay
- Multiple dental treatments on the same tooth
- Cracks or chips to a tooth
- Trauma or injury to a tooth
Will I know if I need root canal treatment?
There are some symptoms that may be indications that you need a root canal procedure. These include:
- Sensitivity to hot or cold sensations
- Swelling or tenderness of the gums
- Discoloration of the tooth
- Severe toothache
- Pimples on the gums
Root canal treatment is important to stop an infection before it has a chance to spread and cause more serious issues.
What happens during a root canal procedure?
Underneath your tooth enamel and the hard layer of dentin is a soft tissue called pulp. The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue that help your tooth roots to grow as your teeth are developing.
Root Canal Treatment FAQs
Will a root canal procedure be painful?
While there are many stories about painful root canals, your procedure should not be any more painful than any other dental procedure. Your dentist will ensure the area surrounding where the work is to be completed will be completely numb. However, there may be some mild discomfort for a few days after a root canal procedure.
How long does a root canal procedure take?
The exact length of your procedure depends on the severity of your issue. Typically, root canal procedures last anywhere between 30 and 90 minutes.
How long will I need to recover from my procedure?
Your mouth will be numb for a few hours following your procedure, but you should be able to return to work or school. Patients should not eat until the numbness has worn off. You may experience some discomfort in the days immediately following the procedure. Over-the-counter medications can be taken to lessen any discomfort.
What should I avoid after a root canal?
It is important to follow your dentist’s instructions carefully following your procedure. Wait until your numbness has worn off to eat. It is best to avoid extremely hot or cold foods, as well as anything too hard, sticky, chewy, or crunchy. Avoid spicy foods, sugary or acidic foods and drinks. Avoid smoking after your procedure as it can impair healing. Do not drink from a straw after your procedure.
How many visits will my procedure take?
Most root canals can be completed in only one or two visits. During the first appointment, the procedure itself will take place. For more complex cases or if there is an active infection, the cleaning portion of the procedure may take place in a second visit. The crown will also be placed during this visit.
Will a root canal procedure restore my tooth to be as effective as it was before?
Yes, a tooth that has been treated with a root canal procedure will be able to function as it did before. With proper oral care, your procedure should last a lifetime.