What to Expect During a Root Canal in Colorado Springs
Root canals really aren’t as bad as everyone thinks they are. In fact, root canals are the actual treatment for the pain caused by the tooth infection. If you’re getting nervous about your upcoming root canal therapy, consider reading the blog below where Dr. Cody Boals and Dr. Alexa Johnson discuss what to expect during a root canal. Please contact us if you need a Colorado Springs emergency dentist.
What Exactly Is a Root Canal?
Although most people have heard of root canals, not everyone understands what they are or why they are necessary. As we mentioned before, a root canal is used to treat a decaying or infected tooth. The damaged nerve and pulp are removed, and the inside of your tooth is completely cleaned and sealed. If you don’t receive a root canal and your tooth becomes infected, it might develop into a tooth abscess. Treatment is key to stopping the tooth infection. Patients who do not undergo treatment may experience face swelling, bone loss, pain, and tooth loss.
What Happens During a Root Canal Treatment?
It is normal to be concerned before a dental procedure, especially if you are unfamiliar with the technique. From start to completion, here’s what to expect during a root canal:
Beginning Stage
- An x-ray of your tooth and gums is taken. Your Colorado Springs dentist examines the contour of your root canal and checks for bone infection.
- A topical anesthetic is applied to your gums. This is mere to make you feel more at ease. Because the nerve in your tooth is likely to be dead, any pain should be mild.
- To keep the region dry and prevent saliva from entering, a rubber dam is placed around your teeth.
- To access the root canal, a hole will be bored into your tooth.
Clean-up Stage
- Your dentist will remove the pulp, decaying nerve tissue, germs, and debris from the root canal. This is referred to as a pulpectomy.
- Your tooth will be cleaned thoroughly by Dr. Boals or Dr. Johnson.
- The following procedure is to close the root canal. This is frequently done on the same visit using sealer paste and a rubber compound. If you have an infection, it may be necessary to treat it first, which will necessitate a follow-up appointment for the sealer. In such a case, a temporary filling will be applied.
- After the root canal has been sealed, a filling is placed in the access hole that was previously drilled.
Final Stage
- Finally, this stae is normally performed several weeks after the initial root canal. Because your remaining tooth is likely weaker or decaying, it must be protected. A crown can be fitted over an existing tooth.
- While a root canal is a frequent and perfectly safe procedure, you may want to discuss your alternatives to alleviate any anxieties or fears. Dental sedation can be as simple as breathing nitrous oxide while the operation is being performed, or you may choose to inquire about oral sedative options.
Following the Procedure
You should not feel any pain during root canal therapy. Additionally, our friend Dr. Wade, a dentist in Pinellas Park, FL, says that you may suffer tooth sensitivity after your root canal procedure. This could be due to gum inflammation, the now-healing infection, or any earlier pain you experienced. An over-the-counter pain reliever would most likely suffice, but consult your dentist first. Also, if the pain worsens or the prescription does not relieve it, consult your dentist. Here are more post root canal tips.
Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry
Brush and floss twice a day and see your dentist for regular checkups to avoid root canals. However, if you must undergo a root canal, make sure you understand what to expect. If you’re worried about the treatment, ask about our sedation dentistry options to help you relax. A root canal does not have to be something you dread. Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry today!