If you've ever had a toothache, you know how painful it can be. Sometimes, a cavity can be easily filled to relieve the pain. However, if the pulp inside your tooth is infected or inflamed, you may need a root canal procedure.
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that involves removing the soft center of a tooth, known as the pulp. The pulp contains nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels that help the tooth grow. When the pulp becomes damaged or infected, a root canal is necessary to preserve the structure of the tooth.
What causes damage to the pulp?
Several factors can cause damage to the pulp, including:
Deep decay due to an untreated cavity
Multiple dental procedures on the same tooth
A chip or crack in the tooth
An injury to the tooth, such as getting hit in the mouth
What are the symptoms?
The most common symptoms include pain in the affected tooth and swelling in your gums. However, in some cases, there may be no pain.
What happens during a root canal?
The process begins with your tooth being numbed to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Then, your dentist will make a small opening in the top of the tooth and carefully remove the pulp using specialized tools called files.
Once the canals are cleaned and disinfected, the dentist will fill and seal the tooth with a sealer paste and rubber-like material called gutta-percha. They may also prescribe you oral antibiotics.
The dentist will conclude the procedure by filling the small opening in the top of the tooth with a soft, temporary material. This sealant helps prevent the canals from being damaged by saliva.
What to expect after a root canal?
Your tooth and gums might feel sore when the numbing medication wears off. Your gums may also swell. Most dentists will have you treat these symptoms with over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). Call your dentist if the pain becomes extreme or lasts for more than a few days.
You should be able to resume your normal routine the day after the procedure. Avoid chewing with the damaged tooth until it’s permanently filled or a crown is placed over the top.
What is a crown?
After a root canal, most teeth require a crown. A dental crown is a tooth-shaped "cap" that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape and size, strength, and improve its appearance. Dental crowns are made from a variety of materials, such as gold, zirconia, or porcelain, depending on your health needs.
Why do you need a crown?
Crowns may be implemented for the following reasons:
Cosmetic solution: To conceal discolored or misshapen teeth
Protective solution: To prevent a weak tooth from breaking
Tooth replacement: To secure a dental bridge or cover a dental implant
What to expect during a crown procedure?
To prepare a tooth for a crown, your dentist will remove the outer portion of the tooth to make space for the crown. Then, an impression will be made of this modified tooth and will be sent to the lab for creation. A temporary crown is made for the tooth and secured in place temporarily while you wait for the final crown to be fabricated (about 2 weeks).
You will then return to the office for a fitting, where the temporary crown will be removed, and the final crown will be tried. If it fits well, it will be sealed with permanent cement.
These two options are restorative procedures that can help you keep your teeth healthy and strong. By taking good care of your teeth and visiting your dentist regularly, you can enjoy the positive results of these procedures.
In need of a dentist? Request an appointment today!
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