FAQs on Root Canals

For some, hearing that they need a root canal can be a bit scary. This is understandable, considering that not everyone has a positive experience at the dentist. However, there are certain things you can do to make your next visit to the dentist less stressful and more enjoyable. One way is by understanding root canal treatment before your first appointment. Here are some frequently asked questions about root canals:

What is a root canal?

A root canal procedure involves removing infected material from inside an infected tooth and then sealing it off, so it does not spread further in your body. This procedure aims to remove all infections, which will prevent future problems with teeth sensitivity or pain caused by decay. It is important to note that the root canal procedure is not saving an infected tooth. This can be done using a dental crown or another restoration, but it cannot be completed via root canal treatment.

What are root canals used for?

Root canals save teeth from infection and severe pain caused by decay in the pulp of your teeth. The pulp is the innermost layer of your teeth containing nerves and blood vessels, making it very easy for decay to spread quickly through the tooth if left untreated. Root canal treatment prevents this by draining out all infections and sealing off the root canals with filling material like composite resin or amalgam (metal).

What is the process of a root canal?

A root canal procedure involves numbing your tooth and then removing all infected tissue from inside it. This can be done by hand or with ultrasonic tools, depending on how much infection is present. Once this is completed, a rubber dam will be placed around your tooth to prevent you from swallowing or inhaling any bacteria that may be present. This will also protect your gums and other healthy teeth from encountering the tooth being treated. The next step involves removing all infections by flushing out the root canal system (the channels inside a tooth) to get rid of harmful bacteria, debris, or dead tissue. Once this is done, the root canal will be cleaned, disinfected, and sealed to prevent future infections from occurring.

After a root canal procedure

It is normal for your tooth to feel very sensitive or tender in the days after a procedure due to nerve damage during treatment. Therefore, you should avoid chewing on your treated tooth until it has healed completely. If you've had a root canal treatment, it is essential to keep your appointments with the dentist so they can monitor how well the tooth is healing and prevent further problems from occurring in other teeth or nearby tissues.