What to Expect From a Root Canal

When your tooth begins to hurt, you should make an appointment to see your dentist. The dentist can determine if your tooth needs a root canal. If so, the procedure can save the tooth. The process usually requires one or two visits.

The tooth will be numbed by local anesthesia. The numbing medication will wear off after a few hours. However, the infected tissue in your tooth may still be painful. If this is the case, you may need to take pain medication. You can also take ibuprofen for short-term relief.

Your dentist will check your teeth for signs of infection. X-rays will show the size of your roots and the shape of the roots. If your tooth is cracked or has deep decay, bacteria can penetrate the root. This can cause an infection in the pulp. If the infection is left untreated, it can spread and even lead to the loss of the tooth.

The dentist will use special tools to drill an access hole in the tooth. The tooth will then be filled with a rubber compound called gutta-percha. This helps keep the infected material out. Then the tooth will be sealed with a sealer paste. Eventually, a permanent filling is placed.

Root canals are a relatively routine dental procedure. In fact, they are often prescribed for swelling or persistent tooth pain. This can be caused by cavities, gum disease, and other tooth problems. Typically, the symptoms associated with a root canal are mild. The root canal itself is not painful. The procedure will also help your teeth last longer.

Before you schedule a root canal, make sure to avoid tobacco products, including cigarettes. Smoking can interfere with your body’s ability to heal. You should try to avoid this for at least a few days before your procedure. You should also try to eat soft foods for the first few days after your procedure. As you get better, you can slowly add more solid foods back into your diet.

You will likely need to visit your dentist regularly after your root canal to prevent the infection from recurring. You should also brush your teeth and floss regularly. It is also recommended to use an antiseptic mouthwash.

Once you have had your root canal, you can expect to have some sensitivity in your tooth for a few days. Your doctor may recommend taking pain medication or even a topical numbing agent. You can resume your normal daily activities after the numbing agent wears off. You should also avoid biting your tooth until it is permanently filled.

A root canal is a very effective and safe procedure. The procedure has been used to save millions of teeth each year. Many people say it is no more painful than a cavity filling. In fact, modern technology has made the procedure relatively comfortable.

If you have a serious infection, you may need antibiotics before and after your treatment. Victorville Dentist You may need a temporary filling while the infected material drains out.