If you’ve recently visited your dentist concerning a damaged or infected pulp, a root canal might be the treatment for you. This procedure involves restoring infected teeth using a dental approved filling instead of removing them. A root canal is a safe and effective treatment as long as it is performed by a certified and proven endodontic therapist.
What does the procedure involve?
Once the dentist has identified that your pulp is damaged or infected, he/she will create an opening at the top part of your tooth. The next step will be to remove the infected tissue before using a disinfectant to flush out bacteria from the root canal. A filling is then used to restore the opening created after the cleaning process.
Is a root canal painful?
Although most people have the misconception that a root canal is extremely painful, this is not the case. Patients can expect some mild pain or discomfort during and after the procedure, but this should go away after some time. Excessive pain is an indication that the procedure was not done right, hence the need for an immediate check-up.
Is root canal a risky treatment?
Complications are very rare in root canal treatment, but this depends on the expertise of your dentist. Just like any medical procedure, complications can arise if tools are used incorrectly or dental hygiene is not maintained. Patients are advised to seek the assistance of qualified and proven dentists to avoid such risks.
Can root canal treatment fail?
The success rate of a root canal is overwhelmingly high. However, there are a few instances when a root canal might fail due to:
- Poor dental hygiene
- Vertical cracks
- Errors made by your endodontist
- Leakage in the restored tooth
- Breakdown of the sealing material over time
Your dentist might recommend the tooth to be removed or the root canal procedure to be redone depending on the extent of the damage.
How can one manage root canal pain after the procedure?
You can use prescription or over-the-counter pain relievers to manage the pain. However, it’s important to talk to your endodontist about any medication before using it. Patients are also advised to avoid biting down or chewing on the treated tooth until full restoration is achieved.
Say goodbye to toothaches and discomforts by consulting your dentist about a root canal.
