Do you have an upcoming root canal? Or have you been told you need a root canal? It is normal to be nervous about root canal therapy, but the procedure is very common and advancements in technology have made it shorter and more comfortable.
The biggest benefit of root canal therapy is that it can save your natural tooth in most cases, preventing the need for extraction and replacement. It also reduces the discomfort you may be feeling from an infected tooth.
In this step-by-step guide to root canal therapy, you’ll learn what to expect from start to finish, eliminating any uncertainty you may have about the procedure.
Why a Root Canal Is Recommended
On the inside of every tooth there is a soft tissue called dental pulp made up of blood vessels and nerves. If the pulp becomes irritated or infected, root canal treatment is recommended.
Common reasons for root canal therapy include:
- Deep cavities. A cavity that is large or deep enough to reach the inner layer of a tooth beyond the enamel can allow bacteria to enter the root canal and infect the dental pulp.
- Cracked teeth. Bacteria may enter the root canal through a crack in the tooth, even a tiny one that is difficult to see.
- Dental trauma. A tooth that gets bumped or fractured may have internal damage that will need to be treated.
- Repeat dental work. When multiple fillings have been placed in the same tooth it can weaken the overall structure of the tooth, resulting in the need for a root canal.
The key goal of root canal therapy is to relieve pain and save the tooth rather than extracting it.
Step 1: Exam, Testing, and Digital Imaging
During the initial consultation your dentist will start by asking you about your symptoms. Then an exam will be conducted including digital X-rays and other imaging to determine the source of your symptoms. Using all of the information gathered, your dentist will make a recommendation for treatment. If you are not in immediate pain, you will schedule an appointment for your root canal procedure. If you are experiencing discomfort or pain, your tooth may be treated immediately.
Step 2: Getting You Comfortable With Local Anesthetic
On the day of your root canal procedure the first step is to numb the nerves in and around the tooth being treated. Local anesthesia will be applied and given time to take effect. The dental team will check to ensure you are fully desensitized before beginning the procedure.
Step 3: Isolating the Tooth and Creating a Small Access Opening
The tooth is isolated using a dental dam, a latex barrier placed over the tooth to keep the tooth dry and clean. In the case of an infected tooth, this step prevents the infection from spreading during treatment. A small hole is made in the crown of the tooth to access the root canal.
Step 4: Cleaning Out the Infected Tissue and Disinfecting the Canals
Using specialized tools the dental pulp is completely removed from the tooth. The root canal is thoroughly cleaned out and disinfected, taking care to reach all of the canals to prevent reinfection. The nerves are also removed during this process, eliminating the chance of any future discomfort.
Step 5: Filling and Sealing the Canals
The root canal is filled with a replacement material that fortifies the tooth and is resistant to infection. The tooth is sealed to prevent saliva and bacteria from entering the tooth after the procedure.
Step 6: Restoring the Tooth After the Root Canal
In most cases a crown will need to be placed over the tooth following a root canal. This protects and strengthens the tooth, especially for back teeth that receive significant chewing force and in cases where there was extensive damage to the natural tooth.
What Recovery Looks Like and Aftercare Tips
Once the local anesthesia wears off post-procedure you may experience some mild tenderness in the area of the treated tooth. Eating a soft diet and taking over-the-counter pain medication can help manage any discomfort you may feel. Avoid chewing on that side for the first few days until you are fully recovered.
Protecting Your Smile After Root Canal Treatment
To maintain your oral health after root canal treatment, be sure to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day as soon as any discomfort subsides. Visit your dentist for follow-up care and routine dental cleanings and exams. If you experience severe or ongoing pain for more than a week following your procedure, contact your dentist.
Are you experiencing tooth pain or discomfort? Call 408-996-8595 or contact us to schedule an appointment with Ryan Senft, DDS today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Treatment
Does a root canal hurt?
With modern technology and local anesthesia, patients can receive root canal treatment in comfort. The procedure is similar to a cavity filling in terms of comfort level and length of time in the dental chair.
How long does a root canal take?
A typical root canal can take anywhere from 30-90 minutes. The length of the procedure depends on a variety of factors such as tooth location, complexity of the root canal, and presence and severity of the infection.
At Ryan Senft, DDS, we are committed to providing comfortable, patient focused dental care in Cupertino. We use modern technology and a gentle approach to help you preserve your natural teeth and maintain long term oral health. If you are experiencing tooth pain or have questions about root canal treatment, we are here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
