Demystifying Root Canals: The Facts and What to Expect
No one enjoys being told they need a root canal. If you’ve never had the procedure, you might wonder what to expect. You also could be trying to separate fact from fiction when remembering the scary stories you’ve heard about them.
If you’re experiencing excessive tooth pain, a local dentist can help you identify the problem and determine if you need a root canal. Here are the facts about root canals, why you might need one, and what’s involved in the procedure.
When Would I Need a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure performed by a dentist or an endodontist to treat and save a severely infected or damaged tooth. The term “root canal” refers to the natural cavity that runs down the center of the tooth that contains the pulp, nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues.
The need for a root canal arises when a tooth’s pulp becomes infected or damaged due to deep decay, tooth fracture or cracking, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or trauma to the face. When the inner pulp and tissue of a tooth become infected or inflamed, severe pain and discomfort are soon to follow. Signs that you need a root canal include:
- Intense and continuous toothache that can spread to the jaw, ears, or other parts of the head
- Fever
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Gums with tenderness, swelling, or pimple-like bumps
- Loose, cracked, or broken filling that could let in bacteria
- A cavity that a typical filling won’t fix
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Discharge in the form of bleeding or leakage, which requires emergency dental care
With timely treatment, you may be able to save the tooth. However, the longer you put off a root canal, the pain and discomfort will only intensify. The infection could also spread to other areas of the mouth. You could also end up with a tooth abscess, which could lead to life-threatening complications.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
The purpose of a root canal is three-fold:
- Remove all the infected pulp
- Prevent future infection and damage
- Preserve the natural tooth
The root canal procedure involves several steps and typically occurs over one or more dental visits. Your dentist will make sure you are as comfortable as possible. Initially, they’ll administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the affected tooth. Next, a rubber dam will go around the tooth to isolate it and keep it dry and saliva-free while your dentist works.
The dentist then creates a small hole in the tooth’s crown to access the pulp chamber and canals. Using specialized dental instruments, the dentist removes the infected or damaged pulp, debris, and any bacteria from the canals. The canals then get a thorough cleaning and are shaped in preparation for the filling material.
The dentist filled the canals with a rubber-like, biocompatible material called gutta-percha, sealed with dental cement to prevent further infection or reinfection. Depending on your situation, the dentist may delay placing the permanent filling material, opting instead to apply a temporary filling to protect the tooth until your next visit, when you’d get the permanent filling.
After the root canal procedure, the dentist usually places a dental crown or filling on the tooth to restore its strength and functionality. This step is crucial because it protects the tooth from further damage and ensures it will last a long time. The dental crown is custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of the natural tooth, helping you maintain your look.
It’s normal to experience some sensitivity or mild discomfort after a root canal. You can control the pain with over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medication. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential to maintaining the health and longevity of the treated tooth. Your dentist will guide you on proper aftercare and answer any questions you have.
Finding a Cincinnati Dentist for a Root Canal
A root canal is a standard dental procedure that preserves natural teeth and prevents tooth loss. A root canal is an effective method for eliminating pain, stopping and preventing the spread of infection, and restoring the function and appearance of an infected tooth. Getting a root canal can even help you avoid the need for extraction or more extensive dental work.
If you have any symptoms of tooth infection or are experiencing pain, consult with the dental professionals at Beckham Square Family Dental. We can assess your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment, which may include a root canal. We’ll also answer your questions and work with you to make the procedure as comfortable as possible.