Root Canal Treatment

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a procedure used to save a tooth when the tissue, blood vessels, and nerves inside of a tooth have become inflamed. In order to save the tooth and remove the pain, the dentist has to remove infected and diseased tissue. Then the infected area is cleaned out and the canal inside is medicated so the surrounding area is able to heal.

Root Canal Symptoms

A patient suffering from an infected root canal will almost certainly recognize that there is something wrong. They will usually be in severe pain and will notice the following symptoms:

• Severe and intense toothaches that won’t go away
• Sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks
• Swollen and tender lymph nodes
• Recurring abscesses on the gums

Generally, but not always, a crown will need to be placed after the root canal treatment is complete in order to protect the tooth from any further damage.

How is root canal treatment performed?

Root canal treatment starts with digital X-rays to determine the extent of the damage. Then, generally, sedation is provided for comfort as the dentist accesses the tooth’s inner structure from the top. They carefully clean out an infectious material to leave the tooth as a hollowed-out structure. Then an antimicrobial liquid flushes out the root canals down to the jawbone. The tooth is then treated with a medicated filling substance to offer support and strength and to help the tooth heal in a timely manner. To protect the tooth, a dental crown is placed over the structure to prevent fractures and breakages.

How long does the pain from a root canal last?

There is a common misconception that root canals are very painful. The truth is, the root canal procedure itself isn’t usually any more painful than a tooth filling. Dentists typically provide an anesthetic before the procedure so during and a short while after there isn’t a huge amount of discomfort.

After the procedure, some sensitivity and discomfort is common while the area around the root canal heals. Gums can become swollen or agitated during the procedure, resulting in mild pain or sensitivity. Pain and sensitivity should subside when the tooth is healed. After your treatment, your dentist will provide you with special instructions on how to care for your newly treated tooth.

What are alternatives to root canal treatment?

Most people facing root canal treatment are curious as to whether there are alternative procedures worth considering. Since endodontic therapy is considered a “last line of defense” for restoring your tooth, the only remaining options are to have your tooth extracted or wait until you’re in pain and have it removed at a later date. Unfortunately, with either of these options, you risk the infection spreading deeper into your face or adjacent teeth. Getting a root canal is the best possible solution.

If you opt to have your tooth extracted, there’s still the concern of replacing it as soon as possible. Otherwise, the extra space in your bite can throw off the alignment of your surrounding teeth. Two of the more common replacement options include a dental bridge or implant.