While root canals are a common oral treatment, many patients are unaware of the process. Before you arrive at your dental office for your procedure, it is helpful to understand what happens and why this type of care is recommended for your condition. Explore answers to dentists’ most frequently asked questions, so you are prepared and confident on appointment day. 

Top Root Canal FAQ

What Is a Root Canal? 

A root canal treatment eliminates decay and infection from the inside of your tooth. To clear away signs of disease and prevent further damage, your dentist will create an opening in the top of your tooth enamel and remove the nerve from the inside. Next, they will carefully clean the inside of your tooth and add an antibacterial medicine. 

Afterward, your doctor will fill and seal your root canal with a special material. Finally, a temporary filling is placed on top of the tooth. This fixture will remain until your mouth is ready for a crown or permanent filling. 

Who Needs Root Canal Treatment?

Patients who have deep cavities, fractured enamel, or broken teeth are candidates. Your dentist may recommend the procedure if you have an injury to the tooth. It may also be time to consider this type of care if previous methods to treat or save the tooth have disturbed its internal tissue.

Are Root Canals Painful? 

Modern developments in dental technology have made it no more painful to have a root canal than to receive a filling. Every patient who gets the treatment undergoes local anesthesia, so you will not feel anything while you are in the dentist’s chair. 

How Long Is Recovery Time? 

You will be able to return to normal activities after your procedure and will only feel discomfort for a few days. Ask your doctor about over the counter medications to relieve any mild pain. In a few days, you will return for your crown or permanent filling. You will be asked not to chew on your tooth until the process is finished. 

Do I Have Other Options?

Another option is to remove the tooth. However, this is usually more painful and expensive than a root canal. Root canal treatments save your natural tooth, which prevents the need for a bridge or dental implant. 

While you make every effort to keep your teeth healthy, you may need endodontic treatment to save a diseased or infected tooth. John D. Mainwaring DDS, in Orange, CT, provides community-based cosmetic and general dentistry services to help patients achieve their best smile. To make an appointment with the dentist or another associate to discuss root canals, call (203) 799-6625. For information about their friendly dental care team and various services, including crowns and teeth whitening, visit their website. Explore tips for better oral health at home and in the dentist’s chair by following them on Google+.