A root canal is a treatment used to save a tooth that has been severely damaged or is infected. The procedure involves removing the damaged or infected tissue from inside the tooth and then sealing it to prevent further damage.
Root canals are often necessary when a tooth is cracked or damaged, and the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains blood vessels and nerves) becomes exposed. This can happen due to an accident, injury, or tooth decay that has not been properly treated.
Once the damaged or infected tissue is removed, the tooth is sealed with a filling or crown. Root canals are usually successful, and the tooth can be saved. However, in some cases, the damage to the tooth is too severe, and the tooth must be extracted.
When scheduling an appointment for a root canal in Rocky Mountain House, it is important to know what to expect. The procedure is usually performed by a dentist or an endodontist (a dentist who specializes in treating teeth).
What Happens During a Root Canal?
A root canal is performed when the pulp, or soft tissue, inside the tooth becomes infected or damaged. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels, which can be very painful when it becomes damaged. The purpose of a root canal is to remove the damaged pulp and save the tooth.
During a root canal, the damaged pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. First, a small hole is drilled in the tooth to access the pulp. Next, the pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned. Finally, the tooth is sealed with a filling or a crown.
Root canals are usually performed by dentists but can also be performed by endodontists, which are dentists who specialize in this procedure. The procedure usually takes one or two visits to the dentist and can be performed under local anesthesia.
Root canals are usually not painful but can be uncomfortable. Some people may experience some soreness afterward, which can be alleviated with over-the-counter pain medication. Taking care of your teeth after a root canal is important, as they may be more susceptible to tooth decay.
What to Expect after a Few Days of Procedure?
If you’ve recently had a root canal, you might wonder what to expect in the days and weeks following the root canal therapy in Rocky Mountain House. Here’s a look at what you can expect and how to care for your teeth to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery.
Immediately After the Procedure
After your root canal, you might feel some tenderness in your teeth and gums. This is normal and should subside within a few days. You might also feel some numbness in your teeth and lips, which is caused by the local anesthesia used during the procedure. This numbness should wear off within a few hours.
If you had sedation during your root canal, you would need someone to drive you home. It’s important not to drink alcohol or operate heavy machinery for the rest of the day.
In the Days Following the Procedure
You can expect some minor discomfort in the days following your root canal. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen to help. It’s also important to stick to soft foods for a few days to give your teeth and gums time to heal.
It’s normal to see some blood in your saliva for the first day or two after the procedure. You might also see some dark staining on your tooth. This is nothing to worry about and will go away on its own.
Caring for Your Teeth
Taking care of your teeth after a root canal is important to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery. Here are a few tips:
-Avoid chewing on hard foods for a few days
-Brush and floss your teeth as usual, but be gentle
-Use a soft toothbrush and avoid vigorous scrubbing
-Rinse your mouth with salt water several times a day
-Avoid using straws for a few days
-Don’t smoke
If you follow these tips, you should have a smooth and comfortable recovery from your root canal. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to talk to your dentist.
