If you’ve been told you need a root canal and it’s your first time, you might feel a bit anxious about what to expect. It’s completely normal to have some nerves about dental procedures. We’re here to help demystify the process and ease any concerns you might have about your first root canal treatment.

Understanding Root Canal Therapy

First off, let’s clarify what a root canal is. This treatment is necessary when the pulp, the soft tissue inside your tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels, becomes inflamed or infected. This can be due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth. The good news is that a root canal is a very common procedure that can relieve pain and save your tooth.

Before the Procedure

Before your appointment, we’ll provide detailed instructions on how to prepare. This might include taking a prescribed antibiotic to prevent infection or an over-the-counter pain reliever to reduce inflammation. Make sure you eat a good meal, as you’ll need to wait a few hours post-treatment before eating again. Feel free to bring headphones and your favorite playlist or audiobook. This will help you relax during the procedure.

Step-by-Step Through the Procedure

Here’s what you can expect during your root canal treatment at Eastern Idaho Endodontics:

1. Numbing the Area

To ensure you’re comfortable and pain-free during the procedure, the first step is to numb the affected area. We use a local anesthetic, and you might feel a slight pinch when it’s administered, but after that, you should feel no pain.

2. Removing the Infected Pulp

Once the area is numb, we place a small protective sheet called a dental dam to isolate the tooth and keep it clean and free of saliva during the procedure. We then create a small opening in the crown of the tooth to access and remove the infected or inflamed pulp.

3. Cleaning and Shaping

After the pulp is removed, the root canal system is meticulously cleaned and shaped with tiny instruments, which allows for efficient filling of the canal. This step is crucial to ensure that all the infected material is removed, and to prevent further infection.

4. Filling the Root Canal

The next step is to fill the empty root canal with a biocompatible material, usually a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This is placed with an adhesive cement to ensure complete sealing of the canals. After the root canal is filled, we restore the tooth with a filling for temporary protection.

5. Final Restoration

In most cases, a tooth that has undergone a root canal will need a crown to protect and restore it to full function. This will usually happen in a follow-up appointment. We’ll provide you with all the options and work with you to ensure the best result.

After the Procedure

It’s normal to feel some sensitivity or discomfort in the treated area for a few days. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. We recommend avoiding chewing on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored to avoid damage.

Follow-Up Care

We’ll have you come back for a follow-up visit to monitor the healing process and to place the final restoration on the tooth. It’s important to follow through with this appointment to ensure the longevity and health of your tooth.

Easing Your Mind

At Eastern Idaho Endodontics, we understand that knowledge is power—knowing what to expect can significantly reduce any anxiety you might feel about your first root canal treatment. Our team is committed to providing a comfortable, stress-free experience. If you have any more questions or need further reassurance, don’t hesitate to reach out.