There are numerous misconceptions about root canals. Many patients visit our dentist in Okotoks and ask if they are painful. If you have wondered the same, keep on reading because we will demystify the procedure.
What Is a Root Canal?
When you visit your dentist for root canal therapy in Okotoks, this dental procedure consists of removing the damaged pulp inside your tooth. When you have severe tooth decay, the infection may spread to the nerve and other connective tissues of your tooth. If this happens, you should look for root canal therapy near you because it is the only way to save your tooth in these cases.
The Procedure
First, you should visit an endodontic dentist near you for a consultation visit. During your appointment, your dental professional will perform a dental exam, radiographic test, and ask about the symptoms you have had. According to their findings, he or she will advise whether or not root canal therapy is needed.
During the procedure, your endodontist will administer numbing medication so you do not feel pain. If you are too anxious, you may opt for sedation dentistry, which consists of using a sedative to make you feel calm.
After the local anesthetic, they will place a rubber dam on your tooth to isolate it from saliva and the other teeth. Then, they will drill a small hole in the tooth and remove the decayed matter and the pulp. Next, they will clean the canals with small files, removing all debris and connective tissue from them. After that, your dental professional will use an antimicrobial agent to disinfect the canals. Finally, he or she will reshape them and fill them with a biocompatible material.
You will leave with temporary cement, and at another appointment, your dentist will most likely place a dental crown because it strengthens the tooth.
After the Procedure
If you opted for sedation dentistry, make sure someone comes with you to the appointment to take you home afterward, unless it is nitrous oxide, where the sedation effects wear off right away.
Your dentist will advise you not to chew on that side of the mouth until the permanent restoration is in place. Also, they will recommend you apply a cold compress to reduce the swelling and take pain medication if you feel any discomfort. Elevating your pillows when you rest also helps. Usually, you will feel sore for the next 48 hours.
If you made it this far, now you know that root canal therapy is not what people think. It is not a painful procedure; on the contrary, it saves your tooth and eliminates the pain because your dental professional removes the infection that is causing it. Thanks to modern dentistry, it is no more uncomfortable than the placement of a dental filling.
Choosing the right professional is also the key to ensuring successful treatment. Root canal therapy has a high rate of success when a specialist performs it. So if you qualify for a root canal, make sure that you visit an experienced dentist who provides quality care.
Schedule Your Appointment
If you have any other questions regarding root canal therapy, feel free to contact our dental office. We have a team of dental professionals who are looking forward to helping you clarify your doubts and evaluate your case to determine if you qualify for a root canal. If you do, schedule your free consultation visit as soon as possible, and extend the life of your tooth.