Understanding Root Canals
A root canal is a restorative treatment for teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma. The dental procedure involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth. The pulp is the soft living material in the tooth's interior. It contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. Thus, the root canal procedure offers relief from dental discomfort since the inflamed nerves that may be causing the tooth to ache are removed when the pulp is extracted.
Here is a bit of information about root canal procedures to help you better understand them.
Why Is a Root Canal Procedure Performed?
A root canal procedure is performed when the pulp of a tooth becomes inflamed or infected, which often happens due to decay, excessive bite force, or other trauma to the tooth. The procedure is done to save the tooth from extraction.
What Occurs During a Root Canal Treatment?
At the start of your treatment, the dentist will numb the affected area with a local anesthetic. They will then use a small drill to create an opening in the tooth material to access the pulp.
Next, the dentist extracts the diseased pulp and cleans and disinfects the canals inside of the tooth. The dentist will then fill in the hole with filling material, seal it off, and cover it with a crown so that bacteria can't enter and cause additional problems.
What Filling Material Is Used for a Root Canal?
The filling material used for an endodontic treatment can be gutta-percha, which is an artificial substance made of rubber and wax, or composite resin, which is made of plastic and glass particles. After the application of the filling, the tooth can be covered with a crown to fully restore its appearance and functionality.
What Should You Expect as You Recover From Your Root Canal Procedure?
The recovery process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on how well you take care of yourself. You should expect some pain and discomfort for the first few days after your root canal procedure, but this should gradually subside as you recover.
You will need to take antibiotics and painkillers for at least two weeks following your root canal procedure. You should also avoid eating any solid foods for at least 24 hours after your root canal procedure, but you can drink liquids like water or broth during this period.
To learn more about root canals, schedule a consultation with a dentist in your local area.