A root canal treatment may sound terrifying, but it is a necessary procedure. This procedure has a reputation for being uncomfortable. It is no wonder that you might want more information about what to expect. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you get a better understanding of a root canal.
The simple explanation of the root canal is that it is all about clearing the dead root inside a tooth. The dentist drills a hole into the tooth, a canal, and cleans out the root and pulp. A root canal treatment is complete in a couple of appointments. It is an effective treatment to save a tooth and relieve existing discomfort.
One of the first signs is the pain that can happen. The tooth pulp becomes infected or inflamed due to decay or a cracked tooth. If left untreated, the infected or inflamed pulp can result in an abscess. Several other signs can signal treatment is necessary, like sensitivity to cold or hot things, tender gums, and a darkening of the gums.
After removing the pulp, the dentist cleans the space and seals it with a dental composite. If the dentist has decided a crown is needed, an additional appointment will be necessary. Putting on a crown protects the tooth. It also restores the tooth’s normal functioning.
The procedure itself is not painful. For a short time after the root canal treatment, dental discomfort is not unusual. It can be relieved with typical over-the-counter medications. If the pain does not go away within a few days, a call to the dentist is necessary to have the site checked.
Aftercare of a root canal is not difficult, but it does require a delicate touch. It is necessary to avoid chewing anything hard or chewy after a root canal until a crown is in place. Once a crown is installed, regular hygiene is all that is needed. If it becomes painful years down the road, a repeat treatment may be the most successful approach.
Soft foods are acceptable after a root canal treatment. Things like yogurt or applesauce are good examples of the texture to look for in food. Avoid eating anything hard because it can hurt the tooth. If the tooth gets cracked, then it will have to be extracted.
Smoking is never a good idea after treatment. It can increase the risk of additional procedures in the future. The more a person smokes, the more likely a root canal will be needed again. It is a good idea to avoid smoking if at all possible.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Root Canal Treatment in Marietta, OH
Root canal treatments are not as scary as they once were, and you can get it done in a couple of appointments. As an effective treatment, you can restore the functionality of your tooth and relieve pain at the same time. After a root canal, you want to be careful with your tooth. Do not eat anything hard that could crack or break it until after the dentist installs the crown.
Request an appointment or call McCarthy Dentistry at 740-546-5178 for an appointment in our Marietta office.
Root canal therapy is a routine procedure often recommended by a patient's dentist to treat infected teeth. Your tooth consists of various components that preserve its function. The root canal is the hollow section of your tooth that contains blood vessels, nerve tissue, and other cells, called the pulp. Your pulp nourishes your tooth and…
You may dread the thought of having a root canal, but it may be necessary. A filling or composite bonding might address minor or moderate cavities. However, if you are experiencing severe, consistent pain in your teeth, these treatments may not be enough to restore the affected tooth. Endodontic treatment is a method where your…
When you think about a root canal, you may have thoughts of pain, discomfort, and a generally unpleasant experience. Of all the dental procedures, this one has one of the most infamous reputations. However, your dentist has the training, knowledge, and tools to correct significant decay and restore your oral health. To diagnose a tooth…
Getting dentures can be exciting because it means your missing teeth will no longer interfere with eating, speaking, and smiling. However, adjusting to a new set of dentures takes time. Knowing what to expect ahead of time makes this transition easier, and most people forget that they are even wearing dentures after a few weeks.New…
Considering dentures? Read on to learn more about this type of restoration. People dealing with complete or partial tooth loss and wishing to restore their dental health and the natural look of their teeth must select the right dentures. With all the developments in technology and materials, there are more choices than ever before, each…