Have you recently been told by your dentist that you need to have a root canal treatment? Fortunately, it is not a painful procedure, like it has been portrayed on television and in the movies. As a matter of fact, root canal therapy causes no more discomfort than receiving a filling. Keep reading on to learn about three things you can expect as you are on your way to a healthy and restored tooth!
First Things First…What Exactly Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal treatment is a very common dental treatment that saves millions of teeth a year. The procedure treats the dental pulp (the inside portion of the tooth where the nerve is housed) of an infected tooth. Your dentist will open the tooth to remove the infected pulp and nerve at the center. Then they clean out the inside of the entire tooth and seal it. This prevents the infection from spreading and causing more serious, painful issues. Without root canal therapy, your tooth would most likely have to be removed.
What Can I Expect Afterwards?
As stated above, Hollywood has perpetuated the myth that root canal therapy is painful. Many times, the infection of the tooth causes a toothache, which may be the reason people continue to associate it with a sense of dread. But there is no need to fear getting the treatment! Here are three things you can expect:
#1. Mild Sensitivity—As with any major medical procedure, a little bit of sensitivity and soreness can be expected afterwards. You can relieve your discomfort with any over-the-counter pain reliever medicines. You will also want to maintain a “soft food” diet for the following days as your mouth begins the healing process. Minimizing chewing will keep your teeth and gums safe, as well as reduce sensitivity.
#2. A Recovery Period—After the infection has been removed and the inside of your tooth has been cleaned, it will be sealed with a temporary or permanent filling. If your dentist uses a temporary filling, you shouldn’t chew on the tooth until it is fully restored by your dentist. As your mouth heals, the swelling from the procedure should subside. You may continue to feel sensitivity, especially as the thin layer of filling wears off your tooth. Within a few days, the inflammation at the sight should diminish significantly.
#3. A Natural and Long-lasting Restoration—After you have recovered from the root canal therapy, you will return to your dentist to receive a final restoration (especially if you had a temporary filling). This ensures your tooth will continue to be healthy and protected in the future. The material of your restoration will be very natural looking, as well as durable and functional.
Root canal therapy is a safe and efficient way to preserve your pearly whites and eliminate tooth pain. After the procedure and a bit of a recovery process, you’ll return to comfortably enjoying your smile in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Sara Curcio and her team at South Windsor Dental create beautiful and healthy smiles for you and your family! She offers a broad range of services, including preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. With the goal of ensuring your complete confidence and comfort in your dental treatment, she is able to preserve your tooth and oral health with root canal therapy. If you are experiencing any tooth pain, make an appointment through her website or call (860) 331-8643.