A root canal is a common treatment option for damaged or dead nerves near the pulp of your tooth. Tooth decay, trauma, or gum disease can affect the nerve of your tooth, which can then lead to additional oral health concerns. A root canal procedure lets you keep your tooth so you don’t have to remove it or replace it with an artificial tooth.
How is a root canal procedure done?
A root canal is the process of removing infected or dead pulp from your tooth in order to keep it healthy. The procedure is performed by experienced professionals in the 123Dentist.com Community Network—so you know you are in good hands.
There are 5 major steps that a 123Dentist.com dentist will take to perform a root canal:
- The dentist will give you an anesthetic (freezing) to make sure you are comfortable during your root canal.
- The dentist will place a rubber dam around your tooth to protect the tooth from the bacteria in your saliva.
- The dentist will clean the pulp of your tooth and remove any damaged or dead pulp.
- After your tooth is cleaned, the dentist will fill and seal the canal to protect it from bacteria and infection.
- To complete the root canal, the dentist will seal your tooth with a filling.
A root canal can be completed in 1-2 dental appointments and can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance.
After your root canal treatment is completed, you tooth may feel tender. You may also experience pain and/or swelling, which is a normal part of your tooth’s healing process. If you experience pain and/or swelling, call your dentist for tips on how you can pacify the pain.
How do you know if you need a root canal?
Here are some questions that can help you determine if you need a root canal:
- Is your tooth sensitive to hot and cold?
- Does your tooth hurt if you apply pressure to it?
- Are the gums around your tooth tender and swollen?
The best way to tell if you need a root canal is to book an appointment with your dentist. A dentist can take x-rays for you to determine if a filling, extraction or root canal is the best treatment option for your tooth.
Visit a 123Dentist.com location today to get a treatment plan that works best for you!
