If you have a vague sense of dread when you hear the term “root canal,” you’re not alone. Let’s face it, getting a root canal is not quite as enjoyable as a normal hygiene appointment. But the process is not as scary as it sounds. More often than not, root canals reduce, rather than cause, pain.
So what exactly is a root canal and why might your dentist recommend one? We’ll answer that and other questions we receive about this common dental treatment.
Root canals are a common dental procedure to restore teeth to a healthy state. When a tooth is infected or irritated, root canals can save the day—and your teeth!
Teeth are more than what you see. Under the outer enamel, there are two more layers, called the dentin and pulp. Root canals target just that innermost part.
Inside your teeth are special cells and vessels that help your teeth develop, but once they’re fully formed, teeth can survive without them. Sometimes, this pulp area actually hurts more than it helps your teeth. That’s when your dentist will remove it with a root canal.
A tiny hole at the top of your tooth is all your dentist will need to clean out the inside of your tooth. After the root canal, the dentist will close up the hole with a crown or filling.
Unlike other options, root canals allow you to keep your natural tooth—always a win! 👏
There are a variety of different reasons your dentist might recommend a root canal treatment. You might need a root canal if:
Without the input of your dentist, it’s difficult to tell whether your symptoms point to an infection requiring a root canal or something else. Be sure to speak up if you notice any discomfort, pain, or unusual symptoms in your teeth and gums.
How to Prevent a Root Canal:
Not every patient will need a root canal. Sometimes, a root canal is your best option for a natural, healthy smile. There are some preventative things you can do, though, to lessen your chances of needing one.
Before your root canal appointment, your dentist might prescribe an antibiotic or anti-inflammatory medicine. This just reduces swelling and addresses any infection. You’ll also want to avoid smoking before and after the procedure as this can interfere with healing.
Depending on your tooth, your appointment should only take an hour or less. The dentist will use a local numbing medicine so you don’t feel a thing.
Next, the dentist will drill a tiny hole at the crown of the tooth and use a very small tool to clear out each canal of the tooth. After the canals are cleaned and shaped, the dentist will fill the space with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha, and close up the hole with a temporary filling or crown.
Some sensitivity in the first few days is normal, but patients usually feel better than they did before the appointment! If you do have any discomfort, you can use over-the-counter pain medications.
Be sure to let your dentist know as soon as possible if you’re in pain after your appointment, as this isn’t typical.
Root canals get a bad rap, but they shouldn’t! They’re a common and effective way to keep your mouth healthy. Of course, preventing a root canal altogether with great hygiene habits is an even better option.
Concerned about your dental symptoms? Have additional questions about root canals? Let us know. Our friendly dentists would be happy to walk you through all your options and help you make a great choice.
Halloween is just around the corner, and the celebrations have already begun. From fall festivals and trunk-or-treats to school parties and more, there’s no shortage of ways to show off your amazing costume—and of course, load up on candy! 🎃🍬 For kids, trick-or-treating is the ultimate Halloween thrill, but for parents, all those sweets pose a challenge. Balancing the fun and dental health can be tricky. With a few proactive steps though, it’s totally doable. Here are five simple tips to keep Halloween happy—without letting it get too scary for your teeth.
Read MoreHave you heard? September is National Gum Care Month, which means now is as great a time as any to brush up on your gum care routine. When you think about a healthy smile, you probably think of your teeth. It turns out, however, that your gums are just as important. In this guide, we’ll dive into why gum health matters, how to stay on top of it, and what to do if you have a gum issue.
Read MoreAh, hormones. They don’t really get the best rap, do they? Just the word calls to mind moodiness, acne, postpartum depression, and night sweats. But did you know that hormones also affect your mouth, too? Yep, that’s right—even your teeth aren’t immune from the impact of hormones on your body. Luckily, with a little foresight and extra love, your oral health doesn’t have to suffer just because Aunt Flow came to town. Read on to see how your mouth and your hormones are connected, which hormonal triggers to watch out for, and what to do to keep smiling, no matter your age or stage of life.
Read MoreWhether you’re new to the Williamsburg area, or new to the Norge Dental family… we welcome you to a new dental experience. We are so thankful you are here.
call (757) 564-0804
