FAQs about Root Canal Therapy

If your dentist has recommended you get a root canal procedure, then you may have several questions in mind. Here are a few frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the process from patients:

What is Root Canal Therapy?

A “root canal” is a component of a tooth. The pulp, also known as the inner chamber of a tooth, contains nerve tissue, blood vessels, and other cells. A tooth is made up of two parts: the crown and the roots. The crown of the tooth is mostly above the gum line, while the roots are below. The tooth’s roots anchor it to the jawbone. The pulp is located between the crown and the root canal. The pulp nourishes the tooth and keeps the surrounding tissue wet. Hot and cold temperatures are perceived as pain by the nerves in the pulp.

Endodontic therapy, which means “within the tooth,” is the term of the dental procedure generally referred to as a “root canal.” Nevertheless, the phrase has become widely used to describe surgery.

Root canal therapy is a dental procedure needed when the tooth’s root becomes inflamed or infected. The procedure involves removing the bacteria in the root canals of the tooth and then sealing the tooth up again so that bacteria cannot re-enter.

Is root canal painful?

No, root canals are normally painless since dentists utilize local anesthetic to numb the tooth and its surrounding areas before the surgery. As a result, you should generally experience no discomfort during the treatment. However, minor discomfort and pain are common for a few days after the treatment.

Is root canal safe?

It is one of the most effective and safe dental procedures available today. This procedure is fairly predictable, according to an article in the European Journal of Dentistry (EJD), with success rates ranging from 86 percent to 98 percent.

Before the introduction of endodontic therapy, the only alternative for treating badly fractured, infected, or abscessed teeth was extraction. Thankfully, root canal therapy can now securely and pleasantly heal most of these infections or damage. Simpler cases may be treated by your regular dentist, but more complicated cases may be sent to an endodontist.

How long does it take for a root canal?

Simple treatment usually only takes one appointment that lasts between 30 minutes and an hour. Severe cases, on the other hand, may necessitate a 90-minute session or even a second if the dentist or endodontist advises a permanent filling or crown for the tooth.

How long is the recovery from root canal?

After a few days, the majority of patients recover from their root canal treatment. Some patients may develop problems, which can take a week or even two to recover from. However, rarely do patients develop complications.

What are signs that you need root canal therapy?

Some of the most common signs and symptoms our dental health shows indicating the requirement to undergo the therapy include:

Severe toothache while performing routine mouth functions, such as chewing and biting
Sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures that lasts longer
Tooth discoloration
Tenderness and swelling in gums near the impacted tooth
Pimple on the gums. It can be persistent or recurring

These signs vary from patient to patient. It is important to immediately consult a dentist when you notice these signs. Having said that, there are cases when patients show none of the aforementioned signs.

Is root canal treatment better than tooth extraction?

It can be deduced after diagnosing the problem and examining the condition of the tooth. However, dentists generally prefer this therapy as it’s considered a better way compared to extraction when it comes to treating an infected tooth. But in the case where the damage is beyond repairable, an extraction may be recommended.

Is getting a crown necessary after a root canal?

It’s not necessary but is certainly important. A crown post root canal therapy will help to maintain your tooth for an extended period and protect it from further damage.

How can I avoid getting a root canal?

The only way to avoid getting this therapy is to practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day. Do not forget to floss them. It will take out the food debris left behind stuck between the teeth. Also, use quality mouthwash. It kills bacteria, which is a major cause of cavities. Avoid sugary and starchy foods.

Lastly, make sure to visit your dentist twice a year. During your routine dental visit, your dentist will be able to identify a cavity in its initial stages. It can then be treated with the help of other dental procedures, such as fillings or crowns, depending on the size of the hole it has created.

Sue Vetter dental care in Seattle offers safe and affordable root canal treatment. Patients will enjoy a hygienic and comfortable environment, along with the supervision of qualified dentists and trained staff.

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