08 Oct What Happens During Root Canal Procedure?
A root canal may sound scary, but it is a painless procedure that can save your natural tooth from infection. Don’t let the fear of treatment keep you from getting the help you need to restore your beautiful smile. Prescott Dentistry has extensive experience in restoring the natural strength and function of your teeth with root canals and other dental procedures. Continue reading to learn what exactly happens during a root canal.
Steps of a Root Canal Procedure
1. Preparation
Before the procedure starts, your dentist will take x-rays of your teeth in order to see the shape of the root canal itself. Next, they will give you a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. Just like extractions, implants, and other oral surgeries, you may feel a slight pressure during the procedure, but you should not feel any pain. Once the area is numb, your dentist will isolate the tooth with a rubber dam so your mouth stays open and the area surrounding the tooth stays dry during treatment.
2. Cleaning Out the Root
In order to access the root canal, your dentist will drill an opening in the top of your tooth. Through the hole, your dentist can remove the infected pulp, decayed nerve tissue, and any other debris from the pulp chamber and root canals with special instruments. Next, the root canals will be disinfected to effectively eliminate bacteria and prevent reinfection.
3. Shaping and Filling the Canals
After thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, your dentist can start shaping them to prepare the canals for filling. Your canals will receive cleaning again after shaping. Then, your dentist will fill the canal with a rubber-like material and add an adhesive cement, sealing your canals to prevent bacteria from entering your tooth.
4. Sealing Your Tooth
The last step of the procedure is to fill the access hole. Sometimes sealing occurs the same day as cleaning out the root canal, or you may have to attend a second appointment after the infection has time to clear up. If you require a second appointment, your dentist will place a temporary filling over the tooth to keep bacteria out until you can receive the permanent filling. After sealing your tooth, your dentist may place a crown or other dental restoration over top of it, depending on how weak your tooth is.
5. Recovery
Root canal aftercare involves managing your discomfort with over-the-counter medication. Your dentist might also prescribe antibiotics to kill any remaining infection. You will also need to practice good oral hygiene and avoid eating hard, sticky, chewy, and crunchy foods until your mouth heals.
When Is a Root Canal Necessary?
Your dentist may recommend a root canal procedure if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Swollen or tender gums
- Pimples along the gums
- Darkening of the gums
- Severe tooth decay
Root Canal Procedure in Prescott, AZ
If you are experiencing extreme tooth sensitivity or have a broken tooth, a root canal procedure might be the right treatment for you. Don’t hesitate to contact Prescott Dentistry in Arizona if you are experiencing any dental pain or discomfort. Your oral health and comfort is extremely important to us! Call 928-445-1660 today to schedule an appointment.