Root Canal Therapy: What You Need To know?

Root canal treatment is known as endodontic treatment. It is a procedure required for treating the infected pulp of the tooth. It saves teeth, prevents reinfection, and helps the patient to get rid of the pain. Moreover, getting it is also pain-free and quite active. Thanks to modern technology and anesthesia. You will bite, chew, and smile again with ease. 

Root Canal Infographics

Why You Need Root Canal Treatment?

It would help if you had root canal treatment when the pulp inside the root canal becomes inflamed or infected. Below are the reasons why you might need it:

• Deep tooth decay
• Crack or chip in your tooth
• Pimples on gums
• Soft or swollen gums
• Damaged crown 
• Darkening of gums
• Severe pain while chewing food
• Repeated dental procedures on the tooth
• Sensitivity to cold or hot that does not go away

If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can trigger pain or dental abscess. In case you need root canal treatment, perform the best root canal near me search on Google or contact Pleasant Hill dentist.

What Happens During a Root Canal?

Root canal gets completed in one or more appointment by an endodontist or dentist. The choice of which expert to use depends on the difficulty of the root canal. Skilled dentist in Pleasant Hill, CA, will discuss who might be best-suited to perform the work in your situation. It involves the following steps:

• The endodontist takes x-rays of the tooth and examines it deeply by making it numb using an anesthetic. After that, the expert puts a dental dam over the region to separate the tooth and free it from saliva.

• The endodontist then creates an opening in the crown using instruments and disinfect the pulp and root canals.

• In the next step, the endodontist fills the canals with gutta-percha along with adhesive cement. This seals the root canal completely. 

• Finally, it would help if you revisited your dentist to have a crown or other restoration procedure. It performs to guard and restore it to full functioning.  

Can You Eat Food Before Root Canal?

Yes. You can eat food before a root canal treatment. Most endodontists permit patients to eat up to one hour before the procedure. However, as with all oral procedures, they ask patients to brush their teeth before the appointment.

Root Canal or Extraction: Which One is Better?

Nothing beats a natural smile. The main benefit of root canals Pleasant Hill CA is to save your natural teeth. However, opting for extraction and then replacing your tooth lead in more treatments. In the worst case, it could even affect surrounding teeth and supporting gums.

What Can You Expect After a Root Canal?

For the initial days, you might have swelling, sensitivity, or inflammation. To treat it, your doctor may prescribe over-the-counter pain medicine or prescription pain medication.

Some patients also face reaction to the medicine or uneven bite. Depending on your signs, you might require a follow-up appointment. Remember, you will return to your normal after a few days.

Do’s and Don'ts After Root Canal:

After your root canal is over, it is essential to follow some basic guidelines:

Do’s:

• Follow the advice of Grafton Dental in Pleasant Hill CA clearly 
• Brush or floss your teeth twice a day
• Be cautious around the area of the root canal 
• Contact your endodontist if the filling gets out or if you feel uncomfortable.
• Have regular check-ups with the expert

Dont’s:

• Avoid chewing hard or chewy foods
• Do not drive instantly after the treatment
• Avoid eating food until your numbness evades

A root canal is an endodontic treatment that gives you a beautiful smile. It also helps you continue eating your favorite foods and prevent the need for ongoing dental work. With proper care, teeth with a root canal can stay for a lifetime. Dentists at Grafton Dental also offer root canal in other locations such as Walnut Creek, Concord, Martinez, and Lafayette.