Having a root canal is one of the most common dental procedures, but it can also be one of the most intimidating experiences. For many, the prospect of a root canal has a reputation for intense pain and trauma, and depending on your overall dental health and how you care for your teeth, it can be. But it can also be a smooth, straightforward procedure that solves ongoing dental issues.
If you’re planning for a root canal, knowledge is your best ally. Read through the following to understand what’s involved in a root canal, how to prepare for it, and what the recovery looks like once the procedure is complete.
What is a Root Canal?
Root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to treat a tooth or teeth that have become damaged or infected by removing the diseased nerve and any infection. During the procedure, the dentist will clean the nerve chamber of the tooth, fill it with a special material, and seal it.
In many cases, a dental crown will be placed on top of the tooth to protect it. According to Dr. Brenda-Reese Shanee, a Harvard-trained board-certified endodontist, “Root canals are beneficial because the procedure saves the natural tooth rather than having to do an extraction.” This makes the process much more cost-effective, and allows the patient to keep their existing smile and teeth, rather than having to restore with dentures, bridges, and implants.
What Should I Expect During a Root Canal?
First, your dentist will use local anaesthesia to numb the area near the infected tooth. In some cases, a sedative may be prescribed to help reduce any anxiety or stress you may be feeling. Next, your dentist will use a tiny drill and files to reach the centre of the tooth and carefully remove the diseased pulp material.
Once the nerve and diseased tissue is completely removed, the area is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected using cleaning solutions and a disinfectant. Then, a material called gutta-percha is used to fill the remaining space of the tooth. Finally, your dentist will cover the tooth with a temporary restoration and schedule you for a follow-up appointment to restore the tooth with a dental crown.
How Can I Manage the Pain After a Root Canal?
Root canals can be uncomfortable because the area around the tooth will be sore and tender. However, having a root canal procedure is no more painful than having a filling. Managing the pain afterwards can be done with simple over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
After the procedure, you should avoid chewing and biting on the side that was treated for at least a day or two. You can also apply an ice pack to the area around the treated tooth to reduce any swelling. If you need further relief, you can take a warm saltwater rinse or apply a topical and antimicrobial ointment such as clindamycin or lidocaine.
How Long Is the Recovery Time After a Root Canal?
The recovery time after a root canal usually takes a week or so. During this time, you may experience soreness and sensitivity in the treated teeth, but it should be manageable with over-the-counter pain medications. Once the infection is treated and the permanent restoration is in place, the tooth should be back to normal.
It’s important to practice good oral hygiene during your recovery period. Your dentist may recommend avoiding certain foods or beverages that may be too sticky or may cause sensitivity. They may also provide rubber tips to wear over the treated tooth to help reduce sensitivity.
Conclusion
Although it’s easy to be scared of root canals, they are actually a fairly simple procedure that can save your teeth from further damage or infection. However, it’s important to speak with your dentist beforehand and make sure you know what to expect during the procedure and recovery time.
By being informed on the the procedure and taking the necessary precautions, you can have a successful and uneventful root canal. It’s impossible to predict how you may feel during and after the procedure, but with proper preparation and care, you’ll be able to manage any discomfort.
If you’re considering a root canal, schedule an appointment with your dentist and start preparing for the procedure today.
Sources:
Shanee, Brenda-Reese. “Root Canal Treatment — What You Should Know.” Health Insight, Harvard Health Publishing, 1 Nov. 2017, www.health.harvard.edu/blog/root-canal-treatment-what-you-should-know-2017110211993.