Do I Need a Root Canal
The necessity of a root canal is typically determined by a combination of symptoms and factors. You may require a root canal if the following are occurring:
Intense or persistent tooth pain, exacerbated by clenching or pressure exerted on the affected tooth.
Tooth sensitivity: An increased response to heat or cold temperatures, persisting even after the triggering stimuli have ceased.
The patient presents with hypersensitive or swollen gums in close proximity to the affected tooth.
Visible decay, deep cavities, or trauma that has resulted in damage to the pulp (interior tissue) of the tooth.
Resolving Pain With Root Canals
Root canal therapy is a popular dental surgery used to ease severe pulp damage or infection pain. Root canals remove compromised or contaminated dentin and clean, cleanse, and seal it to avoid infection. This treatment decreases pain and prevents extraction by preserving the native tooth. Root canal discomfort usually subsides with regular care. Patients often claim immediate relief from significant pain after the intervention. You can reduce tooth discomfort and speed healing by obtaining treatment and following your dentist’s post-procedure recommendations.
Emergency Root Canals
Since every tooth that requires a root canal is in the process of dying, patients should consider every root canal an emergency procedure. Delaying treatment will only increase the chances of pulp necrosis, or having the pulp of the tooth die off entirely. Only a root canal procedure or tooth extraction can reverse the symptoms of pulp necrosis. When left untreated, pulp necrosis may put patients at risk for infection, fever, jaw swelling, cellulitis, abscesses (including those in the brain), sinusitis, periodontitis, and bone loss. Contact our office immediately if you are experiencing severe toothaches when biting down or chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures (especially hot), darkening or discoloration of the teeth, swelling or tender gums, and pimples on the gums.
When Root Canals Are the Only Option
Urgent root canal procedure treats tooth pain and infections quickly. In severe tooth decay, oral injuries, or abscesses, an emergency root canal relieves pain and prevents further complications. An diseased or damaged tooth is removed, cleaned, and sealed to avoid infection. Emergency root canals require prompt dental care to relieve pain, prevent infection, and preserve tooth structure. If you have severe tooth pain or edoema, see your dentist immediately to determine the best treatment, which may include an emergency root canal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What happens during a root canal?
A. A root canal procedure may require multiple office visits. The first step is for our team to take an X-ray to see the shape of your root canals and look for any signs of infection. Then, during the actual procedure, the dentist removes the inflamed nerve and pulp of the tooth. The inside of the tooth will be cleaned and sealed.
Q. Is it painful to get a root canal?
A. It is a common misconception that root canals are excruciatingly painful. With modern technology, getting a root canal is not much more uncomfortable than getting a cavity filled. Root canals can address the causes of any pain you have been experiencing due to the damaged tissues.
Q. How long does it take to get a root canal?
A. This varies on a case-by-case basis. However, most patients can expect one or two 90-minute appointments.
Q. What should I do while recovering from a root canal?
A. Avoid placing any pressure on the affected area, and eat carefully. Refrain from chewing on the side of the mouth where you had your root canal. Opt for soft foods until your tooth has healed. Usually, patients can manage any pain or discomfort during this time with over-the-counter medication
Q. How long will it take me to recover from my root canal?
A. You may be uncomfortable for a few days after the anesthesia wears off, especially if you were already dealing with swelling and inflammation. You should be able to return to your normal activities as soon as the day after the procedure. If your pain worsens or does not subside, call our office immediately.
Dental Terminology
Decay
Dental Caries
Dental Checkup
Dental Filling
Dental Prophylaxis
Dental Sealants
Dentist
Gingivitis
Preventive Dentistry
Tartar
Tooth Enamel
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Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2023
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2023
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2023
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