Root Canals
Root canal therapy is a type of treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected. During a root canal procedure, the painful nerve is removed from inside of the tooth and it is cleaned and sealed. Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected and abscesses may form.
Why do I need this?
A root canal treatment may be the best option to save your tooth if you are suffering from extreme and continuous sensitivity to hot or cold foods. It is indicated for a tooth which may have continuous or intermittent pain, tenderness and swelling around or below it or is severely decayed. Traumatized, broken or discolored teeth can be treated with root canal therapy.
Patient Expectations
Contrary to what people think, root canal therapy performed by an experienced dentist may be close to painless. It is done under local anesthesia so the dentist will first make your tooth numb and then carry out the procedure. Some discomfort may occur later as a side effect which can be countered with pain killers.
The entire root canal procedure may take place in one sitting, or at times 2 or 3 sessions depending on the condition of the tooth. Each sitting may last between 30 - 90 minutes.
After root canal therapy is completed take the medication as advised by your dentist.Maintaining good oral hygiene is extremely important, with regular brushing and teeth flossing. It is advisable to not eat or drink anything for a couple of hours after root canal treatment. Since the treated area is numb, there are chances of accidentally biting your teeth or tongue while eating. You can eat after the numbness wears off. Avoid hard and crunchy foods for a few days after a root canal treatment. Once root canal treatment is completed, you will need to place a crown on the tooth.