Root canal therapy is a process that is often used to help save the natural tooth after it has become infected or injured. Many people don’t really understand the root canal process, which can lead to a great deal of anxiety surrounding the process. When you are able to understand what happens during root canals, you will be better equipped to prepare for your treatment. Here are a few things to understand about what happens during root canals.
What a Root Canal Does
A root canal is intended to remove a damaged or infected pulp that is present inside of the tooth. When your tooth has become severely damaged, it may be necessary to have a root canal in order to save the tooth and prevent the damage from spreading. Root canals are often the best way to restore a damaged tooth.
Prevents Reinfection
When you need a root canal but don’t have it performed, it is much more likely that reinfection will occur. It is also common for an infection to spread to other teeth within the mouth. With a root canal, you will often be able to minimize the likelihood of reinfection.
Saves the Natural Tooth
Other strategies for stopping the spread of an infection may involve sacrificing the tooth, such as having the tooth extracted. Root canals are often the primary solution for saving the natural tooth. This can help to enhance the appearance of the smile and restore the strength of the teeth.
Advantages of Root Canals
Root canals provide many benefits when you use them to restore the health of your tooth. After a root canal, you will still have your natural teeth, so you will have your normal biting force and sensation. Root canals also allow you to maintain a natural appearance for your smile, while simultaneously enabling you to chew efficiently. Root canals to save the health of the teeth will also help to prevent extra wear from occurring to the surrounding teeth.
Signs that you Need a Root Canal
Understanding the signs that you need a root canal will help you to ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment when necessary. If you are experiencing severe pain while you are chewing or biting, it is certain that there is a problem with your teeth. This may indicate that you need a root canal. Other common signs that you need a root canal include teeth that are chipped or cracked, pimples that are present on the gums around the affected tooth, swollen or tender gums, visible signs of decay, and sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
The Root Canal Process
When you have a root canal, there is a particular process that your dentist will follow. First, they will ensure that the area around the affected tooth is thoroughly numbed. Then, a small hole will be drilled in the tooth to enable the dentist to access the infected area of the tooth. The pulp will then be removed thoroughly from the tooth to prevent the spread of inspection. Once the pulp has been removed, the area will be cleaned and disinfected. This will ensure that all bacteria and debris is removed.
After this point, the dentist will fill and seal the hole to prevent the tooth from becoming vulnerable to additional damage. Depending on the extent of the damage to the tooth, the final step will be to restore the tooth with a crown or a filling. You will likely feel numb for a few hours following the root canal, but most people are able to return to their regular operations immediately.
Endodontic Services
Endodontic services refer to a particular type of dental treatment. Root canal therapy is ultimately one type of endodontic treatment. “Endodontics” comes from the Greek language, where “endo” means inside and “odont” means tooth. Endodontic treatment refers to treatments that are intended for the inside of the tooth, like root canals.
Understanding root canals can help you to alleviate your anxiety around your upcoming procedure. When you consult with our experts at Avenues Family Dentistry, you will be able to receive further guidance regarding the process that you can expect to follow. To learn more about root canals, as well as to identify if you need one, contact us at Avenues Family Dentistry today!