Have you been told that you need a root canal? If yes, you are not alone. Root canal procedure is one of the most common dental procedures. Millions of teeth are saved each year, all thanks to a root canal or endodontic treatment. Follow our guide to find out when you need a root canal and relive your smile again.
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But before we jump straight into our topic, let’s revise what exactly a root canal treatment is.
Root canal overview
A root canal procedure is used to repair damaged teeth. Your dentist removes bacteria from an infected root canal, cleans out decay, and prevents further reinfection without having to lose your natural teeth. During the procedure, your dentist cleans out bacteria from the tooth pulp, disinfects it with antibiotics, and fills the empty roots. They also seal the area in order to prevent them from decaying in the future.
A root canal treatment is done by your dentist or endodontist. This treatment is often coupled with crown placement, as this treatment can likely make your tooth more fragile.
When do you need a root canal?
A root canal procedure becomes necessary when your tooth pulp is infected or inflamed. This may be the result of various issues, such as deep decay, chipped or cracked teeth. Moreover, trauma to your tooth can also damage the pulp. If left untreated, this issue can cause a lot of pain or lead to other severe dental complications. Thus, it is essential to have root canal treatment on time.
Root canal symptoms
As mentioned earlier, root canals are required for a cracked tooth or infection. You may need a root canal when you experience the following symptoms:
- swollen gums
- severe pain while talking or chewing
- pimples on the gums
- persistent teeth sensitivity
- darkening of the gums
- a cracked or chipped tooth
Does a root canal procedure hurt?
No, you won’t feel any pain during a root canal treatment, all thanks to local anesthesia. However, you may feel mild pain and soreness for a few days after your treatment. This discomfort can be easily managed by over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compress. How smooth you recover depends on what you eat after having a root canal.
Tips to prevent a root canal
It is essential to follow good oral hygiene practices to prevent root canal and other tooth issues. You should practice the following oral habits to keep your teeth healthy:
- Brush your teeth after every meal or twice a day
- Gently floss between your teeth once per day
- Have dental checkups every six months
- Have professional teeth cleaning at least once a year
- Limit sugary food and tobacco consumption
Takeaway
A root canal procedure is needed when you experience persistent pain while chewing, swollen gums, or cracked teeth. It is recommended to get it treated sooner than later. The infection can worsen, causing severe dental issues if left untreated. Thus, make sure you follow your dentist’s instructions. Lastly, contact us if you need a root canal. Don’t worry, as this treatment has a 95% success rate.
