Root Canal Therapy: What You Should Know
If you’re reading this, chances are you’re experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity and are wondering if you need a root canal. Trust me, I’ve been there. So, what’s a root canal, and why do you need one?
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infected or damaged tissue from inside your tooth. They’re often recommended when the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, becomes infected or inflamed. Without treatment, the diseased pulp can lead to an abscess, a pocket of pus at the root of the tooth. A dental abscess can cause severe pain and can be dangerous if left untreated.
What to Expect During a Root Canal Procedure
Root canal therapy is a relatively simple procedure and can typically be performed in one or two visits to your dentist. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:
- First, the dentist will numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic. This helps minimize any discomfort during the procedure.
- Next, the dentist will create an opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals.
- Using special instruments, the dentist will then remove the infected or damaged pulp.
- Once the pulp has been removed, the dentist will clean and shape the root canals to prepare them for filling.
- The root canals will then be filled with a special filling material called gutta-percha to seal them off and prevent further infection.
- Finally, the dentist will place a filling or dental crown over the top of the tooth to protect it and restore its function.
After Your Root Canal
After the procedure, you may experience minimal discomfort, but it can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Your dentist may also prescribe stronger pain medication if necessary.
It’s vital to follow your dentist’s instructions for caring for your tooth after the procedure. This may include avoiding certain foods and activities and taking medications as prescribed. Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly is also crucial in preventing further infection.
Root canal therapy is generally successful, with a success rate of around 95%. However, in some cases, the tooth may not heal properly or may become infected again. If this happens, you may need additional treatment, such as a root canal retreatment or an extraction.
Tooth Replacement Options
If you need to have a tooth extracted, you have several options for replacing it, including dental bridges and implants. A dental bridge is a traditional tooth replacement option that involves creating a false tooth, called a pontic, supported by crowns on either side. A dental implant is a permanent replacement option that involves placing a titanium screw in the jawbone, which serves as a foundation for a crown. Both options have pros and cons, and your dentist can help you decide which is best for you based on your needs and budget.
We hope this article has helped to demystify root canal therapy for you. If you’re experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, don’t delay — contact a dentist as soon as possible to get the treatment you need.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
Root canal therapy is a dental procedure that involves removing infected or damaged tissue from inside the tooth, cleaning and shaping the root canals, and filling them with a special filling material called gutta-percha. The procedure is usually performed in one or two visits to the dentist and typically takes about one to two hours.
Root canal therapy is generally not painful, as the area around the tooth is numbed with a local anesthetic. You may experience minor discomfort after the procedure, but it can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and cold compresses.
Root canal therapy has a success rate of around 95%. However, in some cases, the tooth may not heal properly or become infected again. If this happens, you may need additional treatment.
Root canal therapy can be performed by a general dentist or an endodontist, who is a specialist in treating the inside of the tooth. At Southern Cal Smiles in Woodland Hills, Dr. Susan Fredericks and her team are experts in root canal therapy and are dedicated to providing high-quality care to their patients.
It’s crucial to do research when looking for a dentist to perform root canal therapy. Look for a dentist with good reviews, a clean and modern office, and a friendly and professional staff. You may want to ask for recommendations from friends, family, or your primary care physician. At Southern Cal Smiles in Woodland Hills, we pride ourselves on our excellent patient care and strive to make every visit a positive experience.
Seek The Treatment You Need at Southern Cal Smiles
If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain or have a tooth that’s infected or abscessed, we advise you to seek treatment as soon as possible. Don’t let fear or hesitation prevent you from getting the treatment you need. Contact your dentist today to learn more about root canal therapy and how it can help relieve your tooth pain and restore your oral health.