You’ve been informed that a root canal is necessary to save your tooth and get rid of an infection, and you’re wondering if the procedure will hurt. These procedures were once known for being painful. It’s understandable that you would be anxious about getting started with your treatment. However, our Cedar View Dental root canal procedure is painless and simple. In this article, we’ll answer some of the most common questions we get about this topic.
Common Questions About Root Canals
What exactly is a root canal?
Endodontic treatment, also known as a root canal, is a dental procedure used to save a tooth by removing an infection from the pulp and to stop a re-infection. Your natural tooth will be saved, the pain will be reduced, and your teeth will become healthy once more thanks to this procedure.
When is it necessary?
If you have a chipped or cracked tooth, severe decay from an untreated cavity, or problems with an old filling, you’ll need a root canal. The following are signs that you might require root canal treatment:
- A tooth with chips or cracks
- Sensitivity of the teeth, especially to cold and hot sensations
- Intense pain when chewing or biting
- The gums have bumps or pimple-like bumps
- Inflamed or sensitive gums
- Gum discoloration or severe decay
- A tooth with an abscess
It’s crucial to take care of the root canal as soon as possible. This is because the infection may spread and result in problems beyond your mouth.
How long is the procedure?
A root canal procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete, but more complicated cases may require 90 minutes or longer. It usually takes one or two appointments to complete the procedure.
What is the process of performing a root canal?
Your dentist or endodontist will take an x-ray of your teeth before performing a root canal to see if the procedure is feasible and to check for the spread of the infection to other areas. Then they will then use a small amount of numbing medication to numb the gum near the affected tooth before injecting a local anesthetic into your gums.
Next, your dentist will make a small hole in the top of your tooth after your tooth has become completely numb, in order to access the affected pulp. Before carefully cleaning each canal in your tooth, your dentist will remove the blood vessels, sensitive nerves, and bacteria that are present in the pulp. After that, your dentist will apply an antibiotic coating to the area to disinfect it and stop re-infection.
Finally, your dentist will then finish the procedure by filling and sealing your tooth. To prevent post-root canal pain, they might prescribe oral antibiotics and over-the-counter painkillers.
Is it painful?
Thanks to the local anesthesia used by the dental professionals at Cedar View Dental to numb the tooth, you won’t experience any pain during the root canal procedure. Prior to receiving treatment, the tooth itself is where the pain from root canal procedures originates. The truth is that the pain goes away once the infection is treated.
During the procedure, you might feel a little pressure on your tooth, but nothing more.
Following the procedure, you’ll probably feel some mild pain and discomfort for a few days. You can manage any discomfort by taking painkillers. Keep in mind that you should see your dentist if it persists for longer than a week.
Treatment of Root Canals in Lynwood, WA
In Lynwood, WA, Cedar View Dental provides painless treatment for people who have been told they need a root canal or are exhibiting its symptoms. For a beautiful smile and a healthy mouth, we also provide restorative dental services. Schedule an appointment now!