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Root Canal

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure performed to eliminate infection or inflammation inside the tooth (dental pulp) and save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted.

🦷 What does the procedure involve?

Evaluation and diagnosis:
A clinical and radiographic examination is performed to determine the extent of the infection or damage to the dental pulp.

Local anesthesia:
Local anesthesia is applied to numb the tooth and surrounding area, ensuring the procedure is painless.

Accessing the tooth:
The dentist creates a small opening in the crown of the tooth to reach the affected pulp.

Cleaning and disinfection:
The infected pulp tissue is removed, and the root canals are carefully cleaned using special files and disinfecting solutions.

Filling the canals:
Once cleaned and dried, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material (usually gutta-percha) to seal them and prevent future infections.

Final restoration:
A filling or crown is placed to protect the tooth and restore its chewing function.

Post-cares

Importance of Proper Root Canal Aftercare for Successful Root Canal Recovery

   After the root canal is complete, you will need to follow proper root canal aftercare to minimize discomfort and prevent infections. You will be issue prescriptions for medications that will aid in your comfort and healing. Even if you feel fine, it is important to take all prescribed medications to tame inflammation and ensure a proper recovery.

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Wait Before Eating or Drinking

You can’t eat anything until the anesthesia wears off. You may bite your cheek or tongue because they are still numb.

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Avoid Certain Foods

Do not eat hard foods, sticky foods, spicy, crunchy, or chewy foods. These things can cause irritation. Sugary foods should also be avoided as they can encourage the development of infections around the tooth. Additionally, don’t have anything that is hot or spicy to eat or drink as it can increase soreness.

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Rinse with Salt Water

Warm salt water is an excellent rinse for your teeth when you’re healing from root canals. It will help your treated tooth recover and prevent infections.

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No Drinking or Smoking

Alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, and oral tobacco products should not be used during this recovery period. Additionally, anything that requires you to suck, spit, or drink from a straw should be avoided.

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        While it is not common, complications may arise after a root canal. There is always the possibility of infection, though following the aftercare will help. If you notice the symptoms of a tooth infection, swelling worsens, or you have a fever, you should contact your our office immediately.

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