At Eastern Idaho Endodontics, we understand that the thought of having a root canal can bring up a lot of questions and concerns. It’s perfectly normal to want to know more about what the procedure involves, why it’s necessary, and what you can expect during and after the treatment. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about root canals, providing you with accurate and reassuring answers directly from our experienced endodontists.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that is used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. This treatment helps to eliminate infection and protect the decontaminated tooth from future microbial invasion.
Why Do I Need a Root Canal?
Root canals are recommended when the pulp, the soft tissue inside the root canal, becomes inflamed or infected. This can happen because of deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth. Symptoms of pulp damage include pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of the tooth, and swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums.
Does a Root Canal Hurt?
Many people are concerned about root canals because they assume they are painful. However, most patients report that the procedure itself is no more painful than having a filling placed. The discomfort experienced in the period leading up to seeking dental care is truly the painful period, not the root canal procedure itself.
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
A typical root canal procedure can take about 90 minutes to complete. The exact time can vary depending on the complexity of the tooth and the required treatment. We make sure to take the necessary time to perform the procedure meticulously and ensure the best outcome.
What Can I Expect After a Root Canal?
It is normal to feel some tenderness in the area for a few days after your root canal treatment as your body undergoes the natural healing process. These symptoms are temporary, and usually mild analgesics are sufficient to relieve them. Most patients can return to their normal activities the next day.
How Successful Are Root Canals?
Root canal treatments are highly successful; the procedure has more than a 95% success rate. Many teeth fixed with a root canal can last a lifetime. Additionally, the crown or filling placed on the tooth after the completion of the procedure makes it hard to notice by others that a root canal was performed.
Do I Need Any Special Care After a Root Canal?
After your root canal therapy, you should avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it is fully restored by a dentist to avoid recontamination. Good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your root canal treatment.
Conclusion
We hope these answers help clear up some of your concerns about root canals and help you feel more at ease about the procedure. At Eastern Idaho Endodontics, our priority is your comfort and health. If you have more questions or if you are experiencing symptoms that might require a root canal, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to ensure that your treatment is as comfortable and successful as possible.
