Root Canal Therapy: Purpose, Procedure, and Aftercare
It could be a pulp infection when you have tender, swollen, or dark gums. This is a serious and potentially threatening condition if not treated early. A pulp infection can spread to the nearby tissues and affect the teeth structures, leading to decay or loss of teeth. That is why it is recommended you get root canal therapy near you to get rid of the infection.
What is the Root Canal?
Root canal therapy removes an infected pulp. The pulp chamber (the innermost layer) houses the nerves and blood tissues that nourish the teeth during the development stage.
A bacterial infection damaged dental fillings, and repeated dental procedures are primary causes of pulp infection. An endodontic infection removes the infected pulp before it wreaks havoc. The pulp infection causes a few problems, like persistent pain, lingering tooth sensitivity, swollen gums, and loose teeth.
How is the Procedure Done?
A root canal therapy in West Palm Beach, FL, is similar to the dental fillings procedure, but it lasts from one to two hours. The endodontic procedure can also be done in one or two dental visits.
The dentist will begin numbing the gums to ease the pain. He can sometimes use laughing or oral dental sedation to relax patients with dental phobia. He will drill the crown to access the inner chamber and remove the infected pulp. He will then clean the area to remove any bacteria left. A biocompatible material (gutta-percha) or dental dam fills the chamber before sealing the tooth with a dental filling. A dental crown is made to restore the strength and function of the tooth.
What Can You Expect After the Pulp is Removed?
After the endodontic treatment, you will experience soreness, gum bleeding, pain, and swelling. These problems with clear out with time, but it is advisable to take the medications prescribed by the dentist to ease the pain and prevent infection.
What is the Recovery Aftercare?
Recovery from the root canal treatment takes a couple of days, but it is important to care for the teeth and gums to ensure the success of the healing process. Eat soft and less chewy foods, and avoid hot, spicy, or hard foods that irritate gums. Brushing is crucial, but ensure you avoid the site and use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Does Root Canal Infection Cause Tooth Discoloration?
Teeth discoloration often occurs due to a root canal infection. Root canal infection leads to increased blood flow in the tissue around the teeth, which can cause inflammation and discoloration. However, you can still get the teeth discolored after the root canal procedure.
A dentist near you can recommend dental bleaching to remove the stains. Professional teeth whitening is the most recommended option because it can remove internal stains.
Does Root Canal Procedure Hurt?
Pulpal inflammation can cause toothaches, and endodontic procedures often relieve the pain. With modern treatments and pain relief techniques, most patients report being comfortable during their treatment.
Your tooth may feel sensitive after the root canal procedure, so make sure to take any medication as prescribed. Afterward, you should be pain-free and back to normal!
After the root canal, your tooth may feel different for some time. If you have severe pain or discomfort lasting more than a few days, make an appointment with your endodontist.
What Are Root Canal Treatment Risks?
In rare cases, the infection can happen if any stage of the root canal treatment is not completed correctly. But, the most common risk of root canal treatment is a seal leak. After your treatment, your dentist 33407 will want to reseal the access hole they used. If they don’t do it properly, bacteria can get in and re-infect the tooth.
Permanent crowns are used to close off the outer part of the tooth. But, without proper care, they can wear down over time, allowing bacteria to recolonize
Schedule an Appointment
Visit John S. Ledakis, DDS, PA, for more information about root canal infection treatment and what you can expect.