On occasion, bacteria can infiltrate the pulp of a tooth, leading to an infection. In such instances, root canal therapy becomes essential in order to rescue the tooth. This treatment involves the extraction of the infected pulp and the sealing of the tooth to prevent any further infection.

What does a root canal entail?

A root canal procedure is a dental treatment aimed at alleviating discomfort arising from a tooth infection or abscess. In the course of a root canal, the inflamed pulp is extracted, the interior of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, and a filling is applied to seal the void.

 

When is a root canal called for?

Root canal therapy becomes essential when the pulp inside a tooth gets invaded by oral bacteria. This typically occurs when a cavity is left unaddressed over an extended period. Additionally, it may be necessary if a tooth sustains cracks or damage due to physical trauma.

 

What are some indications that suggest the need for root canal treatment?

In certain cases, it may not be immediately apparent that you have an infected tooth. However, many individuals experience specific symptoms that serve as warning signs for requiring root canal therapy. The key signs that may necessitate a root canal procedure include:

Persistent Tooth Pain

Toothaches can result from various dental issues, but if you have deep, unrelenting tooth pain, it may signify the need for root canal treatment. This discomfort can also extend to your jaw, face, or neighboring teeth.

Sensitivity to Temperature

If your tooth becomes sensitive to hot and cold stimuli, such as pain when consuming hot coffee or cold ice cream, it could indicate a need for root canal therapy, especially if the sensitivity persists for more than a few seconds.

 

Swollen Gums: In cases of tooth infection, the accumulation of pus in the affected area can lead to swollen, tender, or puffy gums.

Gum Pimple

The presence of a pimple or boil on the gums may signal an infected tooth. Pus drainage from the affected tooth through the pimple can result in an unpleasant taste or odor.

Jaw Swelling

Sometimes, if pus doesn’t find an exit point, visible swelling of the jaw may occur as a consequence.

Tooth Discoloration

Tooth pulp infection can cause the affected tooth to darken in color due to diminished blood supply.

Pain with Pressure

Discomfort when eating or applying pressure to the tooth may indicate damage to the nerves surrounding the pulp.

Chipped or Cracked Tooth

Accidents, sports-related injuries, or biting down on hard objects can lead to tooth damage, allowing bacteria to reach the tooth pulp.

Loosened Tooth

An infected tooth may feel less secure in its socket due to the softening of the supporting bone caused by pus from the infected pulp.

 

What is the prevalence of root canal therapy?

As per data from the American Association of Endodontists, a staggering 41,000 root canal procedures are carried out daily in the United States. This equates to an annual total of over 15 million root canals performed.

 

Details of the Procedure

How should I get ready for my root canal treatment?

Prior to commencing your root canal procedure, your healthcare provider will be available to address any inquiries you may have regarding the process. Here are a few steps you can take to prepare for your root canal treatment:

  • Adhere to Medication Instructions: If your condition necessitates it, you might receive antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications a few days before your appointment, especially if there is a substantial infection.
  • Avoid Smoking: The use of tobacco products can impede your body’s natural healing processes. It’s advisable to refrain from smoking for several days leading up to your root canal appointment, and ideally, cease smoking altogether if possible.
  • Have a Nutritious Meal: Since the local anesthesia employed during the root canal procedure will cause temporary numbness in your mouth for a few hours, it’s a good idea to have a meal before your appointment.

 

How long does a root canal procedure typically last?

The duration of a root canal treatment can vary depending on the extent of infection in the tooth. It may necessitate either one or two appointments. On average, a root canal takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes to complete. However, if the treatment involves a larger tooth with multiple roots, it may extend to around an hour and a half.

What occurs during the root canal process?

Before initiating the root canal procedure, your healthcare provider will take dental X-rays of the affected tooth to assess the extent of damage and ensure that root canal therapy is the appropriate course of action. The following are the steps involved in a root canal procedure:

  • Anesthesia: To begin, local anesthesia is administered to numb the infected tooth and the surrounding gum area. Additionally, if you experience dental anxiety, your healthcare provider might recommend relaxation-inducing medications, such as nitrous oxide, oral sedatives, or intravenous (IV) sedation.
  • Dental Dam Placement: Prior to commencing the root canal treatment, a small rubber dam is positioned to isolate the tooth and maintain a dry environment during the procedure.
  • Access Hole: Subsequently, a small opening is created in the crown of the tooth to gain access to the pulp.
  • Pulp Removal: Tiny dental instruments are utilized to eliminate the nerves, blood vessels, and tissues from within the tooth.
  • Shaping the Canals: After removing the pulp, the pulp chamber and root canals are meticulously cleaned, disinfected, and shaped.
  • Canal Filling: The now-empty canals are filled with a pliable, rubber-like dental material called gutta-percha.
  • Tooth Sealing: Following this, a temporary dental filling is applied to seal the tooth and prevent the re-entry of bacteria.
  • Placement of the Final Restoration: In most cases, a dental crown will be required to safeguard the treated tooth and restore its function. Crowns are custom-made and typically take two to three weeks for fabrication. Once your crown is ready, the temporary filling is replaced with the permanent crown. In certain situations, a same-day crown may be a possibility.

 

Do root canals cause pain?

Many individuals worry about experiencing tooth discomfort after undergoing root canal therapy. Nonetheless, as the procedure removes the source of infection, most patients typically experience immediate relief following the treatment. If you do encounter persistent throbbing pain after a root canal, it’s essential to promptly contact your healthcare provider.

 

What can I anticipate post-root canal?

Although significant pain after a root canal is not expected, you may encounter sensitivity during the initial days following the procedure. These sensations are considered normal and can be effectively managed with either prescription or over-the-counter pain relievers. In most cases, any side effects tend to subside within one to two weeks.

 

Who should carry out my root canal procedure?

Root canal treatments are administered by either a general dentist or an endodontist, who is a specialist in root canal procedures. General dentists are typically equipped to handle teeth located towards the front of the mouth, particularly those with fewer roots. In cases where you require root canal therapy for a tooth with multiple roots, or if your situation is complex, a referral to an endodontist may be recommended.

 

A message from IstanBest Clinic

Experiencing tooth pain or jaw swelling can be distressing. Thankfully, root canal therapy can effectively eliminate the source of infection, providing swift relief. If you suspect that you may have an infected or abscessed tooth, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider promptly. Timely treatment can prevent the spread of infection and alleviate your discomfort, allowing you to return to your normal routine.