Root Canals: What You Should Know Before Getting One

 

Hardly do you have people tell you that you require a root canal. It is not a very popular dental procedure, which may be somehow tied to the notion that it is a long and painful process. The truth remains that getting a root canal is one of the simplest dental procedures. It is usually a seamless and painless process that doesn’t take more than 45 minutes to complete.

But before deciding to get a root canal, there are a few factors to consider. First, not every dental condition automatically requires a root canal. However, a wide range of oral health issues will certainly tail the line towards a comprehensive root canal treatment.

In this article, we will clear the air around root canal treatment and discuss some of those things you need to know before getting one. Read along now.

What Is A Root Canal?

A root canal procedure is a basic dental procedure that involves using a tiny instrument to clean out a decayed tooth while preserving the rest. The procedure can be carried out by a general dentist, altogether this area of dentistry is usually reserved for an endodontist or root canal specialist. A general understanding of root canals will help put the mind at ease.

When Should You Get A Root Canal?

The best and fastest way to know when you need a root canal is by visiting your dentist. He or she would conduct a comprehensive exam and inform you whether or not you need one. Nonetheless, there are several telltale signs to watch out for that are indications that you may be due for a root canal. They are as follows:

1. Persistent pain in the tooth and bone of your tooth. This pain could be lingering or may come off and on.
2. Sensitivity to hot or cold food such as tea, coffee, ice cream, or very cold water. Might come as a sharp pain or dull ache.
3. Discoloration of the tooth due to infection in the tooth pulp. Trauma to some oral tissues can damage your tooth roots leading to a grayish look.
4. Swollen gums. These may result from acidic waste products from decaying or dead pulp tissues. Swelling could be permanent or may come and go.
5. A chipped or cracked tooth from a domestic accident can lead to inflammation which may require a root canal.
6. A loose tooth is also a strong indication that you need a tooth canal.

Questions To Ask Before Getting a Root Canal Treatment

Before going for a root canal treatment, you must discuss extensively with your dentist to know your options. This is to ensure that both you and the doctor are on the same page and there is no confusion along the way. Below are some questions to ask your dentist highland park before the procedure:

• Is a root canal really necessary?
• What if I don’t do the root canal?
• What are my options?
• Should I skip the root canal and go instead for an implant?
• Is it possible the tooth will recover and not need the root canal?
• Will my infection spread to other teeth or my bone?
• Why did the pulp die?
• How predictable is the treatment?

These questions will help set the stage for whatever actions your dentist will have set up for you before the treatment.

What Is A Root Canal Procedure Like?

A typical root canal procedure looks something like this:

1. You will be prepped on a dentist’s chair with your mouth open for a couple of hours. This can be really tough but a bit of distraction like listening in on some good music with earphones could be helpful.
2. After which, your dentist will then proceed to extract the inflamed pulp, then clean out and shape the insides of your tooth.
3. Your dentist will then seal off this area to guard against infection.
4. You will need to book another appointment to have a crown placed. A crown protects the teeth from shaking and functions like the rest of your teeth.
5. That’s it! You are done with your root canal treatment.

Root Canal Treatment Can Save Your Smile!

Root canals are a common procedure that dentists perform for patients who have suffered from tooth decay, trauma, or infection. Do you seek the professional dental services of expert endodontists in the city of Highland Park? Call Lasting Smiles that’s most convenient to you in Highland Park, NJ. To schedule a root canal consultation or request one online.