Commonly asked questions about endodontic treatment
At Scott and Derry Dental Care of Milton, Ontario, patients often have many questions when they are told that they need root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment. By educating patients on the procedure and what to expect, many individuals are no longer afraid to have the procedure performed and understand the need to extract the tooth if treatment is not explored. Below are some of the more commonly asked questions about root canal treatment.
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that involves the removal of the infected or damaged pulp from the inside of a tooth. The dental pulp refers to the soft tissues inside the tooth containing the nerves and blood vessels. Once the pulp is removed, the root canals are cleaned and sealed with a filling material. Root canals are often recommended when a tooth is severely decayed or infected. They can also be used to treat cracked teeth and teeth that have been damaged by trauma.
What are the signs that I need endodontic treatment?
There are several signs that you may need endodontic treatment, including severe tooth pain, tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, gum swelling, and gum tenderness. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to see a dentist right away for an evaluation.
What occurs during the root canal procedure?
The dentist will remove the damaged or infected pulp from the tooth during a root canal procedure. The root canals will then be cleaned and sealed with a filling material. The entire process usually takes about an hour to complete.
How long does it take to recover from a root canal?
Most people recover from a root canal procedure within a few days. However, it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions for post-treatment care. That includes taking any prescribed medications, avoiding hard foods, and chewing on the treated tooth until it has healed.
How long does endodontic treatment take?
Endodontic treatment usually takes one or two visits to the dentist. The first visit is to remove the damaged or infected pulp from the tooth. The second visit is to check that the root canal is clean and free of infection.
Is it painful to have a root canal?
Most people report feeling little to no pain during a root canal procedure. However, some people may experience some discomfort afterward. Your dentist can prescribe medication to help relieve any pain or discomfort.
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What do I need to know to care for my smile after root canal treatment?
It’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions for post-treatment care. That includes taking any prescribed medications, avoiding hard foods, and chewing on the treated tooth until it has healed. You may also need to schedule regular checkups with your dentist to ensure that the tooth is healing properly. The dentist may recommend softer foods for a few days until patients can get in to place a dental crown. This is often done as endodontic therapy can leave a tooth weak and brittle. The placement of a crown strengthens the tooth post-operatively to ensure it can function without further issues.
How do I learn more about endodontic therapy?
Milton, ON area patients who need root canal treatment are encouraged to book an appointment with Scott and Derry Dental Care by calling (855) 438-4999 and visiting 6521 Derry Road, Unit #7. The office is open to new and returning patients and families and can provide a wide range of oral health solutions for individuals of all ages.
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