We’ve all heard the dreaded term “root canal” and naturally associated it with a scary and painful dental procedure. But how many of us actually know what a root canal is and what it entails? A root canal, also called endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure performed to repair a damaged or infected tooth by removing the infected pulp, the soft tissue that makes up the inner structure of a tooth, and replacing it with a filing. Root canals are done to save a tooth instead of removing it.
What Does a Root Canal Treatment Look Like?
It is not uncommon to want to know what the steps of a dental procedure look like before getting into the chair. Root canals are relatively simple procedures. While each dentist may perform a root canal differently depending on the severity of the infection, an average root canal includes the following steps:
- Begin by X-raying the infected tooth and the surrounding area to determine the extent of the damage.
- Numb the area with an anesthetic to ensure the patient’s comfort during the procedure.
- Place a rubber dental dam over the tooth to maintain cleanliness and dryness and to prevent chemical ingestion during the procedure.
- Drill a small hole into the tooth’s center to access the pulp.
- Using special dental instruments, remove the pulp and other materials, including nerves, blood vessels, and tissue.
- Clean and disinfect the canals with antibiotics to eliminate any remaining infection.
- Fill the canals with a dental filling and seal the space with dental cement to prevent further infection.
- Finally, reconstruct the tooth with a synthetic crown to protect it from any potential breakage.
How to Tell if You Need a Root Canal?
A dentist should be the one to determine whether a root canal is necessary for you or not, using methods such as X-rays, cavity tests, and more. However, signs can vary, but common symptoms include:
Tooth pain signals:
- Persistent toothaches that worsen when eating or when the tooth encounters something
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Sharp pain that spreads to the jaw, face, or other teeth
- Severe pain when biting or chewing
Tooth appearance signals:
- Discoloration of the tooth, often appearing dark or gray
- Visible damage, such as a chip or crack
- Visible deep decay
Other symptoms to be aware of:
- Swollen and tender gums near the affected tooth
- Pimples or boils on the gums
- Swelling of the face, jaw, and neck
- Loose tooth
- Bad taste in the mouth
- Drainage from the affected tooth
Do Root Canals Hurt?
Many years ago, root canals were often painful. However, with our dental advancements and local anesthetics, root canals cause little to no pain. Although pain is subjective, it is commonly said that root canals do not cause any more discomfort than getting a cavity filled. You might feel some pressure, vibrations, and other movements during the procedure, but these are painless. You will be back to eating and smiling in no time!
What to Expect After a Root Canal
Like any other dental procedure, you may experience some discomfort for a few days following your root canal, especially while chewing. While easily managed with pain management medication, you may also experience swelling, inflammation, bruising, uneven bite, stiffness, and sensitivity – all widespread post-root canal effects. To aid in the healing of your tooth and gums, try some of these tips as needed or by dentist order:
- Avoid strenuous activity for the first 24 hours after your root canal.
- Stick to eating soft foods for the first few days, including pasta, mashed potatoes, cottage cheese, yogurt, etc.
- Avoid chewing on your treated tooth.
- Follow as the dentist directs, but try rinsing with warm salt water to reduce pain and swelling.
Schedule an Appointment with Eubanks Family Dental!
If you are experiencing symptoms that lead you to believe you need a root canal, call Eubanks Family Dental. We would be happy to inspect your tooth and help determine if a root canal is necessary. We are educated dental professionals with your best dental interest in mind. If you have further questions about root canals and our treatment process, please call or visit our website’s contact page.
