Before your first root canal, it’s normal to feel a little nervous. There are several misconceptions about root canals that might make some people more hesitant to get them. The truth is that these procedures aren’t nearly as scary as they seem, and they can help ease tooth pain. The more you learn about the procedure, the less nervous you will be. Here is what you can expect.

What Happens During a Root Canal

Before 

Before recommending a root canal, your dentist will ask about your symptoms, such as sensitivity to hot and cold foods, pain, and discharge from the tooth. They may also take an X-ray to check for abscesses that may require a root canal.

During

The dentist will first apply an anesthetic to your tooth to ensure patient comfort. Then, they will put a rubber dam around the tooth to keep saliva away. The dentist will then remove the infected pulp and bacteria by drilling a hole in the tooth. Once the infected area is drained, they will use a file to clean out debris from the roots of the tooth. Lastly, they will fill the canals with a rubber filling material called gutta-percha. They will ask you to come back to get a crown a week or so after the procedure.

After 

After root canal therapy, you can go home right away. Once the anesthetic wears off, you may feel some discomfort around your tooth. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help relieve the pain. You may want to eat just soft foods for the first few days after the procedure as well. 

If you have more questions about root canal therapy, turn to Ronald L. Rasmussen, DDS. As a leading dentist in Sacramento, CA, his practice offers a variety of dental procedures for patients of all ages. Whether it’s a routine exam or porcelain veneers, Dr. Rasmussen and his staff go above and beyond to accommodate their patients, including offering early appointments. For more information about their services, call (916) 689-1100 or visit their website.