Do you cringe at the term “root canal”? Just hearing the word can make most people feel anxious and think of high costs or pain. But how many of us really know what a root canal is? The truth is, a root canal or root canal therapy is a painless procedure that actually relieves pain associated with an infected tooth. Root canals can treat and save a dying tooth, but the process doesn’t hurt. Many patients actually report it’s no more painful than a dental filling.
FACTS ABOUT ROOT CANAL THERAPY
- Root canal therapy is also known as endodontic therapy.
- During a root canal, the infected and dead pulp tissue from inside the tooth is removed.
- Many people believe they are very painful, however, it is a pain-relieving treatment.
- Root canals are a less expensive option than having a tooth removed and replaced with a crown or bridge.
WHAT ARE THE STEPS OF ROOT CANAL THERAPY?
The process of root canal therapy is done in three steps and can take up to three sessions to complete:
(1.) CLEANING THE ROOT CANAL
With the patient under local anesthesia, the dentist makes a small hole in the center of the tooth and removes everything that is inside the root canal.
(2.) FILLING THE ROOT CANAL
Next, the dentist shapes, cleans, and decontaminates the hollow area. The dentist will then fill the tooth with a rubber like material, using adhesive cement to seal the canals completely. Once the root canal treatment is finished, the tooth is dead. The patient will no longer feel pain because the nerve tissue has been removed along with the infected pulp.
(3.) A CROWN OR FILLING IS ADDED
Once the tooth is dead, the tooth becomes more fragile than before and will need a crown or filling for protection. A tooth without any pulp receives nourishment from the ligament that attaches the tooth to the bone. This supply is adequate but over time, the tooth will become brittle and will need protection. Until the crown or filling is complete, the patient should not chew or bite using the treated tooth. Most often a root canal will only require one appointment, but if there is a large infection, the treatment could take additional appointments.
WHEN IS A ROOT CANAL NEEDED?
If there is a deep cavity, a loose filling or a cracked tooth, bacteria can enter the pulp of a tooth. If the pulp of a tooth becomes diseased or injured, the tissue dies since it cannot repair itself. A pulp injury will make the tooth sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. You may also have pain when chewing and some experience a continuous throbbing pain. Without treatment, the infection will spread and the tooth will loosen and need extraction. A root canal will usually save the tooth and also eliminate the pain.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER A ROOT CANAL
After the treatment, you may experience some tenderness. This is normal and also temporary. Over the counter pain medications should be all you need to relieve any pain. However, there are prescription drugs available for pain if needed. The dentist may also prescribe an antibiotic to prevent infection from occurring.
ROOT CANAL IN MAGNA, UT
To relieve pain/symptoms associated with an infected tooth and prevent health issues, you may opt for a root canal. Root canal therapy will allow you to live your life comfortably and free from worry. Give us a call, or contact us today to set up your appointment for a root canal in Magna UT.