Everything About Root Canal Treatment

Root canals are necessary when decay or infection reaches the inner layer of a tooth, known as the tooth’s pulp. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, and when it becomes infected, it can create significant discomfort. During a root canal procedure, a dentist removes the infected pulp, disinfects the area, and seals the tooth. The tooth is then restored with a crown or filling to restore its functionality.

Signs And Symptoms of A Root Canal Infection

The dentist has a checklist to go over with you if you’re wondering about having a root canal. If you have any of these signs or symptoms, you should schedule a dental checkup.

• Pain

Pain is the most obvious sign that something is wrong. Tooth pain is often caused by a cavity, but other types of pain may be caused by a dental infection.

• Swelling and abscess

Swelling could mean that you have an infection. You might also have an infection if your gums are red or if your gums are tender or swollen.

• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or touch

You might feel pain when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. Sensitivity to cold or hot, as well as touch, could mean that you have an infection.

Root Canal Treatment - Procedure 

A root canal procedure will be performed by a dentist or endodontist. 

A root canal procedure involves:

• Diagnosing the problem.

Your dentist will take x-rays of your teeth and examine them closely for any signs of decay or infection. A root canal procedure will be needed if your dentist sees signs of deep decay or infection.

• Administering local anesthesia.

Your dentist will numb the infected tooth and the surrounding area so that you don’t feel any pain or discomfort during your procedure.

• Making an opening in the tooth.

Next, your dentist will drill and open the crown of the tooth. This part of the procedure is called an access opening or access cavity.

• Treating the infection.

Your dentist will remove the infected pulp from the center of the tooth. This tissue contains the nerves, so removing it will prevent any pain that you may feel during your procedure.

• Removing the diseased tooth tissue.

The diseased tissue will then be removed from the interior of the tooth.

• Cleaning the inside of the tooth.

Your dentist will then use special instruments to clean the inside of the tooth. This part of the procedure is called debridement.

• Filling the inside of the tooth.

After the infection has been removed, the inside of the tooth will be filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This material prevents recontamination in the future.

• Sealing the tooth.

As the last step, the tooth is sealed and secured with a dental crown to protect it. 

What Happens After A Root Canal?

After a root canal, you’ll probably experience some tooth sensitivity, but that should subside within a few days. Your mouth will be sore for a few days; it is advisable to stick to soft foods while you recover.

You should continue to brush and floss your teeth twice a day, but avoid anything abrasive. You should also avoid rinsing your mouth out with water, as this can dislodge the blood clot inside your tooth. Finally, avoid chewing or biting on the treated tooth until it has fully healed.

To learn more, schedule a consultation with one of our dentists. They would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Is A Root Canal Recommended For Me?

There are many reasons that root canal therapy is recommended. Root canal treatment is recommended if the tooth is suffering from an infection or abscess. It’s also recommended for a tooth that has severe decay or a fracture. These procedures are also recommended when tooth decay has damaged the pulp of the tooth.

To learn more about our dental procedures, schedule an appointment right away with Ideal Smiles of Stamford. We are located at 86 Prospect St Suite 300, Stamford, CT 06901. You can also call us at (203) 359-2222 or mail us at [email protected].