Root Canal 101: Everything You Need to Know

 

Do not be afraid or worried if the dentist in Spring Creek Forest recommends a root canal treatment. Millions of teeth are saved using a root canal procedure. The treatment involves removing the infected pulp, easing the pain, and making your teeth healthy. In this post, we answer some of the common root canal questions.

What is a Root Canal?

Inside our teeth beneath the enamel and the dentin, is a soft tissue, known as the pulp. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue that are needed to nourish the teeth during the growth stage. Although a fully developed tooth can survive without the pulp, it is still important to your dental health.

If the pulp gets infected, it can cause pain, inflammation and eventually cause tooth damage. A dentist near you can recommend a root canal procedure to remove this infected pulp before it causes further damage.

What Causes the Pulp to Get Infected?

A bacterial infection is the primary cause of the pulp infection. Poor hygiene can cause bacteria to accumulate in the gums and get into the pulp cavity. Repeated dental procedures and injury to the teeth after an accident or fall are also causes.

How Can You Tell Your Tooth is Infected?

There are several symptoms that you need to pay attention to, such as:

  • Pimples in the gums
  • A chipped and cracked tooth
  • Severe pain when chewing and biting
  • Swollen and tender gums
  • Lingering sensitivity to hot and cold foods
  • Darkening gums

How is the Root Canal Procedure Done?

The root canal procedure is done in two or more dental visits depending on the severity of the treatment. Our dentist in Spring, TX, 77379 will begin the procedure with a comprehensive dental assessment. A radiograph of the tooth is taken to examine the condition of the teeth and the extent of the infection. After assessment and determining if you are eligible for the procedure, he will perform the following:

  • Numb the teeth and separate the teeth with a protective sheet to isolate the teeth and keep them dry and clean.
  • The teeth are opened to access the pulp and using small instruments, the dentist will clean the pulp chamber and root canals. The cavity is reshaped in preparation for the filling.
  • Using a biocompatible material, our dentist in Spring Creek will fill the cavity and seal it. He will use a temporary filling to cover the teeth and make it easy for you to use teeth.
  • On the final dental appointment, the dentist will replace the filling with a permanent dental crown. The crown restores the teeth’ function, strength, and appearance.

Does the Tooth Need Additional Treatment?

Most teeth last as long as the natural ones after a root canal. However, there are times when the teeth do not heal properly and the pain continues. When this happens, the dentist may perform another endodontic treatment.

What to Expect After the Root Canal Procedure?

You will experience tooth sensitivity, inflammation, and swelling a few days after the treatment. It is, therefore, important to avoid chewing or biting the treated tooth until the dental crown is fixed.

These problems will clear out after some time, and the dentist will prescribe medication to ease the pain and prevent infection.

Continue practicing proper hygiene including brushing, flossing, and getting regular assessments.

Does the Procedure Kill the Teeth?

No, a root canal will not kill the tooth. The pulp is removed, but they serve little function in fully grown teeth. Moreover, the dentist will fix a dental crown, which restores the teeth’ function and strength.

What Happens if You Don’t Get the Root Canal Procedure?

If you don’t remove the infected pulp, the infection will spread to surrounding tissues. In some cases, the infection can get into the bloodstream, which can be life-threatening.

The tooth can decay and get damaged, leading to tooth extraction. Removing your permanent teeth can damage your dental structure. It will also lead to the need for other dental treatments to restore the missing teeth.

Schedule an Appointment

If you notice your gums are darkening or becoming tender, visit Spring Creek Forest Dental for assessment. Call us now to book an appointment with our dentist near you. Out team also welcome patients residing in Oakwood Glen, Spring Creek Forest, Spring Creek Oak, Woods of Spring Creek Oaks, Terranova West, Oaks of Terranova West, Wimbledon Champions Estates, Wimblendon Place Condo, and surrounding communities.