When you first learn that you need to have a root canal, you may immediately begin to feel nervous or anxious about a painful procedure. Typically when you find out that you need a root canal, you have already been in a significant amount of pain, so it is natural to associate a root canal with pain. The truth is, however, that a root canal will alleviate your pain and restore your dental health. While you may experience soreness and discomfort, there are several things your dentist will do to ensure you are not in pain during or after your root canal. Continue reading to learn more about what to expect during a root canal in Webster here at Empire Dental Care. As always, we are happy to discuss your concerns and help you remain relaxed during your procedure.
Who Needs a Root Canal?
More than 25 million root canals are performed every year, which means that most adults will likely need one at some point in their lives. [1] A root canal needs to be performed when the root of one of your teeth has excessive decay and infection.
There are typically very obvious signs and symptoms of tooth/root decay: [2]
- Excessive pain especially when eating
- Sensitivity to hot or cold food and drinks that lingers
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Gum discoloration
- Swollen Gums
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you should contact your dentist to determine if a root canal is the right option for restoring your dental health.
What to Expect During a Root Canal in Webster
When you arrive for your root canal procedure, it is common to feel some anxiety or nervousness, but your dentist will work with you to ensure you are as comfortable and relaxed as possible.
The procedure will begin by administering a local anesthetic to ensure that your teeth, gums, and jaw are completely numb and you do not feel any pain.
Next, your dentist will access the root and fully remove the infection and decay in the pulp of your tooth and its root. Once your tooth has been cleaned and disinfected, the dentist will fill the tooth with gutta-percha. Gutta-percha is a natural material that fills the root canal and prevents future infections.
Since the root canal procedure removes a significant portion of the inner structure of your tooth, it can become weakened over time and prone to breaking. For this reason, your dentist will likely place a crown to protect the tooth and ensure you do not suffer further pain, discomfort, or infection.
After the root canal, your jaw may feel sore or tight from the procedure, but this should not last long. Your dentist may prescribe medication to help with pain and an antibiotic to fight any remaining bacteria or infection. Many patients can find pain relief from over-the-counter medications. You should continue to brush and floss like normal. If you have any questions or experience any pain be sure to contact your dentist right away.
The Best Dentist for a Root Canal in Webster
It can seem like a scary procedure if you don’t know what to expect during a root canal. Thankfully, a root canal will cure any pain you are experiencing from your infected tooth. The experienced and compassionate team at Empire Dental Care will ensure your comfort every step of the way. If you are ready to schedule an appointment with Empire Dental Care, contact us today at 585.671.1650.
Sources:
[1] https://newsroom.aae.org/press-kit/
[2] https://www.aae.org/patients/root-canal-treatment/what-is-a-root-canal/root-canal-explained/
