Knowing what to expect when receiving root canal treatment can help those who are nervous about dental procedures.One of the purposes of a root canal is to remove an infection from deep within the tooth roots and relieve pain. When your natural tooth is infected, decayed, or damaged, root canals are used to save it.
What to Expect During a Root Canal
In terms of duration, root canals can take anywhere from one to three hours. The patient will sit with his mouth open during this time. For some people, this may be an unpleasant experience, but it is necessary.
Getting ready for a root canal
For the purpose of guiding them through the root canal, the Chapel Hill Dentist will most likely take an X-ray. When a tooth is opened, dentists frequently use a rubber dam to isolate the tooth and prevent contamination. A small rubber sheet is placed over the mouth to form the dam. During the procedure, this dental dam can also keep objects from flying into the back of the throat.
Once you’re in the dentist’s chair, the first thing the dentist will do is numb the tooth with local anaesthesia. This is to ensure that the patient feels as relaxed as possible. The dentist injects anaesthetic into the area surrounding the tooth after applying a numbing substance topically. During the procedure, most patients report feeling little to no discomfort.
During the root canal procedure
To begin, the dentist will drill a hole in the top of the tooth with a dental drill and other tools. This gives the dentist access to the insides of the roots. The root canals are injected with a sanitising solution. The dentist then removes all infected tissue from the root canals.
After the root canals have been cleaned, a special dental filling material is used to fill them. This provides strength to the hollowed roots and prevents further decay or infection. The top of the tooth’s hole will also be sealed.
Following the root canal procedure
To prevent further damage or decay, the dentist will usually recommend placing a crown over the treated tooth. As long as the tooth is not covered by a dental crown, it is susceptible to damage and bacterial attack. The dentist will prepare the tooth for the crown by shaping it to make room for it. After that, an impression of the mouth is taken and sent to the dental laboratory, where the custom restoration is created. If the dentist uses a traditional laboratory, the crown may take a few weeks to complete.
After the root canal, the gums and lips should be numb for a few hours. Sensitivity is common, and pain usually peaks 24 hours after the procedure. Ibuprofen and other over-the-counter pain relievers should help manage the discomfort. Ibuprofen has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling.
The root canal treatment
When it’s time for a root canal, we want you to be fully informed and prepared for the procedure. Call our office today if you have any questions about root canals or dental health. Our highly qualified dentists and hygienists are available to assist you.
Request an appointment here: https://goodridgefamilydentistry.com/ or call Goodridge Family Dentistry at 919-968-9806 for an appointment at Our Dental Office in Chapel Hill NC.