Serious dental infections and injuries don’t always have to result in losing a tooth. In many cases, a skilled dentist can save—and preserve—your tooth through a procedure known as a root canal. While this therapy may be prevalent, many people don’t know what to expect when they go to the dentist, which may contribute to anxiety about the treatment. If you’ve never had a root canal before, here are a few important pieces of information that can help you feel more comfortable with this common procedure.

What Is a Root Canal?

Root canal therapy can be completed in about an hour to 90 minutes. Dentists typically apply general anesthesia to prevent pain during the procedure.

First, they will isolate the tooth using a dental dam. Next, a special drill is used to drill a small hole into the enamel. This hole will provide access to the interior of the tooth so that the dental pulp can be removed. After that, your dentist will clean out the tooth to remove any bacteria and prevent further infection.

Once the tooth is clean, a rubbery substance is placed within the tooth. This material seals the root endings and strengthens the tooth so that it can support regular chewing and biting activity.

Depending on the size and location of the drill hole, a custom dental crown may be placed over the tooth to restore its look and functionality. Smaller holes, however, might be closed with a standard filling material.

How Can You Tell if You Need a Root Canal?

If the roots in a tooth are injured, exposed, or infected, you might experience dental pain. This pain may range anywhere from a persistent, sharp twinge to mild sensitivity while chewing or drinking hot beverages. The gum tissue around the tooth may also swell and produce discharge. 

How Do You Recover From a Root Canal?

After treatment, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications may be necessary to minimize discomfort. In addition, you can reduce swelling and minimize pain by placing an ice pack over the tooth area for 10 minutes at a time.

Maintain a normal oral hygiene routine and rinse with salt water if you are unable to brush or floss the affected tooth. To prevent irritation, avoid eating hard or chewy foods until the treatment area has healed. If prescribed, take antibiotics to prevent secondary infection in the tooth.

When troublesome toothaches strike, turn to Judy Walker, DDS, for a thorough diagnosis and comprehensive treatment. Based in Greensboro, NC, this family dentist has the skills and tools necessary to perform root canal procedures in a fast, dependable, and comfortable manner. Backed with cosmetic dentistry resources, Dr. Walker can also restore the look of your tooth with a high-quality, custom crown. To learn more about these restorative options, visit this provider online, or call (336) 275-1472 to schedule an appointment.