What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is needed when damage occurs to a tooth’s pulp. This can happen due to an injury or due to severe tooth decay. A root canal is often a dreaded procedure but is often the only alternative to having a tooth extracted. Root canals are also very effective at eliminating tooth pain.
Root Canal Treatment also is known as Endodontic Treatment. It is a procedure done when the tooth decay reaches the pulp (innermost layer of the tooth) causing inflammation. It is necessary to save the damaged tooth from extraction. This procedure is done by an Endodontist who is known as a Root Canal Specialist. The procedure involves:
- Removal of inflamed or infected tooth material
- Cleaning and disinfection
- Filling and sealing with an inert material
- Restoration and crown/cap
While root canals can take two or more appointments, Our team will work to make each appointment as comfortable as possible for you.
SYMPTOMS
- The most common symptom that one might need Root Canal Treatment is a toothache. The pain can range from mild to severe. With time it may worsen, and you will feel the pain even when you bite your food.
- The other reason is prolonged sensitivity. If you feel sensations in your tooth while consuming something hot or cold, then there is the slightest chance that one needs to undergo Root Canal Treatment.
- Swelling in the gums can also be a sign that you need Root Canal Treatment.
CONSEQUENCES OF NOT GETTING A ROOT CANAL TREATMENT-
- If the pain you feel goes away, then it does not mean that your tooth had healed with time but this indicates that the nerves inside the tooth are all dead and the infection has grown manifolds.
- The bacteria from infection can enter into the tissues of gum and jaw which can cause a pus-filled abscess. This can even lead to a serious condition like heart disease and stroke.
What Happens After a Root Canal?
After a root canal, you should consider having a crown put over the tooth as this will help prevent tooth breakage. This is especially helpful if extensive restoration was done, leaving a thin shell of a tooth. If pain, swelling, and other problems occur after root canal treatment, you may need to meet with your dentist again to determine whether or not further work needs to be done.
POST-TREATMENT CARE FOR ROOT CANAL TREATMENT-
- Do not put pressure on the tooth. Since there is no crown, the tooth is unprotected as a result, putting pressure can cause damage to the tooth.
- Avoid hard and crunchy food, instead chew soft food until final restoration
- Be careful while brushing. Do not be too harsh while brushing