What Is Root Canal Treatment?
It is an endodontic treatment in dentistry that helps save natural teeth. Root canal encompasses treating the inside layers of a diseased tooth to preserve its structural integrity. It is a meticulous process where the dentist in Westminster, CO, must treat the tooth inside without damaging its external framework.
What Should You Expect During A Root Canal Procedure?
One of the things you must know about endodontic treatment is that they are invasive. Therefore, anticipate the following steps during your root canal procedure:
- Numbing with local anesthesia – to numb your mouth from the pain, discomfort, and sensitivity of the procedure. In some cases, the dentist near you may proceed to use sedation dentistry to relax your body, calm your mind, and overcome dental anxiety.
- Drilling – the dentist drills your tooth to create a hole that accesses the inner layers of your tooth.
- Cleaning – the dentist will begin cleaning your tooth layers, particularly focusing on the pulp cavity. It houses all the soft tissues of the tooth, including nerve endings, connective tissues, and blood vessels. Cleaning targets all damaged soft tissues and bacteria built up inside the tooth.
- Filling – the dentist reshapes the tooth’s canal and then fills it with a special substance called gutta-percha. It helps keep the tooth compact.
- Sealing – the dentist completes the procedure by sealing the tooth with a dental filling of choice. The dental filling will prevent the re-entry of bacteria into the inner layers of your teeth. In some cases, your dentist at Dental Associates of Westminster will place a dental crown on the tooth after the dental filling. The role of the dental crown is to hold the sizeable filling in place and strengthen the tooth post-treatment.
How Can You Prepare For Such A Procedure?
A comprehensive dental exam usually precedes a root canal treatment in Westminster. The dentist will inform you of the changes to anticipate during and after your treatment. Some tips to prepare you for your root canal procedure are:
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco for at least 24 hours before your treatment. They usually heighten inflammation, increase bleeding and slow down the healing process. These factors can complicate your endodontic procedure.
- Take pain medication beforehand – although not all dentists agree on this, some recommend taking pain medicine before the treatment. It is said to help manage your discomfort during and after your treatment.
- Eat before you visit your dentist – you may have a hard time eating during the first day after your treatment. However, make sure you eat a few hours before your treatment. If your dentist recommends fasting, heed those guidelines.
- Rest and sleep well before your procedure – it allows your body to relax and be ready for an intense treatment.
What Happens After Root Canal Treatment?
Immediately after your procedure, your mouth will remain numb for a few hours. You must avoid eating until the numbing wears off, lest you accidentally bite or hurt yourself. Besides that, anticipate the following signs, typical after root canal procedures:
- Heightened tooth sensitivity – especially the first 3 days after your treatment.
- Swollen gums and cheek – inflammation is a common response of your body’s immune system to the changes in your mouth. However, the swelling should not spread throughout your mouth or to other body parts like your neck and head. If it happens, contact your dentist immediately.
- Soreness, bruising, or dental pain – it is normal to feel like one side of your cheek is sore and tender to the touch. It should get better as you heal.
How Should You Adapt To Life After Root Canal Treatment?
A few changes will be necessary as you recover after your treatment. However, as you heal, you should resume normalcy. Some tips to help you navigate life after a root canal are:
- Eat soft foods only.
- Avoid too hot or cold foods, particularly the first three days after your treatment.
- Eat healthily to support the recovery period.
- Avoid drinking or smoking until you have fully healed.
- Keep your mouth clean by brushing and flossing. You may need to liaise with your dentist to learn the correct technique and use the best products for your teeth after root canal treatment.