Root canals are a common dental procedure that is done to save teeth that have been damaged from decay or trauma. They are a painless way to remove the infected or damaged tissue from inside a tooth and restore it to health.
A dentist that specialized root canals can tell if you need a root canal by listening to your symptoms and performing other tests, such as taking x-rays. This helps the doctor to identify the condition and plan the treatment to be performed.
Your doctor will then prescribe you medications to help relieve your pain and discomfort. These may include a pain reliever, an anti-inflammatory, or a local anesthetic. You will also be told how to care for your mouth after a root canal, as well as instructions on what foods you should and should not eat after the procedure.
When the infected pulp inside a tooth becomes inflamed or infected, the bacteria can spread into surrounding areas, including the jawbones and gums. This can lead to infection that affects the rest of your body. This infection can cause severe pain and swelling, or it could even lead to bone loss.
It is important to have the infected tissue removed and the root canals sealed to prevent the bacterial infection from spreading. A root canal is the preferred treatment for this problem as it is far less invasive than extracting (pulling) a tooth and is often more cost-effective in the long run.
How is a root canal performed?
The procedure involves numbing the infected tooth, removing the diseased and dead pulp tissue and then cleaning and shaping the empty space inside the tooth. A rubber dam is then placed to keep saliva and bacteria out of the area and to protect the nerves and blood vessels from exposure during the treatment.
After the treatment, you will need a dental crown to seal the tooth and provide protection from further bacteria. The crown is made from a material that matches your natural tooth and is strong enough to preserve the structure of the root canal and reduce the risk of breaking or cracking the tooth.
How long will a root canal take?
A root canal can last from a few hours to a few days. After the procedure, you will be instructed to eat soft foods, avoid hot or cold foods and chew slowly on the opposite side of your mouth.
Choosing the best Sarasota dental specialist can be difficult, so it is essential to find a highly trained professional who is dedicated to saving your natural teeth and restoring your smile. Our experienced team is ready to listen to your concerns and answer any questions you might have about root canal therapy.
Before undergoing a root canal, you will need to schedule an appointment with our office so we can examine your tooth and discuss the procedure with you. It is also necessary to prepare your mouth for the procedure, by eating a healthy meal and avoiding smoking, both of which interfere with the healing process.