What You Need To Know About Root Canals
When you go to the dentist, he or she will do everything possible to clean and protect your teeth. Unfortunately, there are some situations where a root canal might be present. Even though these words can evoke strong emotions from patients, it is important to work with a dentist who can guide you.
At Aria Dental, we have a lot of treatment options available, and a root canal is only one of them. Learn more about this treatment process below, and reach out to us to make an appointment.
What Is a Root Canal?
First, understand that a root canal is both a treatment process and a specific part of the tooth. Your tooth is anchored to your gums and jaw using a root. Essentially, if you are told that you need a root canal treatment procedure, then the dentist is concerned that the pulp underneath the tooth has gotten infected.
The goal is to remove the infected tissue from the tooth, fill it in, seal the tooth again, and try to save the tooth. A root canal is more serious than a typical filling, but the dentist performs a root canal to try to prevent the tooth from being extracted.
Who Needs a Root Canal?
There are several signs that could indicate that you need a root canal. They include:
- If you have persistent tooth pain, this is a sign that you may need a root canal.
- If you brush and floss your teeth regularly, and if you have already been to the dentist multiple times, but the pain is still present, then you might need a root canal.
- If you are particularly sensitive to hot and cold substances, then you may need a root canal. When you drink hot coffee or eat ice cream, if you feel shooting pains traveling down your tooth into your jaw, this could be a sign that you need a root canal.
- If your tooth hurts when you touch it, this is a sign that it could be infected underneath the surface, which means you might need a root canal.
- If your gums are swollen and discolored, then this is a sign of gum disease, and you might need a root canal.
If any of these symptoms described something you might be feeling, you need to reach out to a dentist to make an appointment.
What Is the Treatment Process Like?
There are several steps involved in cleaning out the root canal. They include:
- First, the dentist will remove all tissue inside the root canal. You will be given local anesthesia during the procedure to keep you comfortable.
- Next, the dentist will decontaminate the root canal. He or she may also re-shape the root canal using a variety of irrigation solutions. The dentist will also fill the root canal with new material before sealing it to prevent it from getting infected in the future.
- Finally, the dentist will also add a crown or filling to protect the tooth. Now, the truth is more fragile than it was before, so the dentist needs to add an extra layer of protection.
The dentist will go through the procedure with you in great detail before the day of the operation. Typically, a root canal procedure only takes a single appointment, but the dentist may ask you to come back for a follow-up appointment to make sure the infection does not return. This is particularly important for putting your recovery in the best position possible to succeed.
Call Aria Dental To Make an Appointment
Ultimately, these are just a few of the most important points you need to keep in mind regarding a root canal treatment. At Aria Dental, we have multiple treatment options available, and a root canal is only one of them.
Understand that we do not recommend this treatment option unless we believe it will be a significant benefit to you. We know that you have questions or concerns, and we will always take the time to answer them before we move forward.
If you would like to learn more about the treatment options we have available, or if you have concerns about your oral health, we are here to help you. Contact us today to make an appointment with a member of our team.
