The root canal process is often used to save a tooth that has become severely injured or infected. When you have a root canal, you will often be able to enhance the health of your smile without requiring more substantial work, such as dental implants. Understanding the root canal process will help you learn what to expect and what to prepare for. Here are a few important things to keep in mind about the root canal process.
The Advantages of Root Canals
Root canals are a great way to restore the health of your smile without requiring tooth extractions. When you get a root canal to enhance the health of your tooth, you will be able to maintain a natural appearance, as well as prevent excessive wear on the other teeth. You will be able to ensure that you can continue to chew as normal and you will likely be able to maintain the same sensation.
The Root Canal Process
When you have a root canal, there are several things that you can expect to happen. The first part of the root canal process involves ensuring the area is thoroughly numbed. Once the area has been numbed, your dentist will drill a miniscule hole in the tooth in order to gain access to the interior of the tooth. This will allow your dentist to remove the infected or damaged pulp from within the tooth.
Following this, the area will be cleaned and disinfected before being filled and sealed. A restoration process will then be chosen by your dentist, who will then use either a crown or filling to protect the tooth. It is common for the area to remain numb for several hours after the root canal, so you will want to be prepared for this. You may need to wait or drink food until the numbness has worn off to prevent injuries.
How to Tell if you Need a Root Canal
When you understand the signs that you need a root canal, you will be able to obtain the appropriate services before an extensive amount of damage occurs to your teeth. If you need a root canal, it is possible that you are experiencing severe pain when you are biting, chewing, or otherwise placing pressure on your teeth. You may need a root canal if you have a chipped or cracked tooth, or are experiencing sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures. Other common signs that you need a root canal include pimples on the gums, visible signs of decay, and gums that have become swollen or tender.
The Purpose of a Root Canal
Once the pulp within a tooth has become infected or damaged, there is no way to repair it. To prevent the spread of damage, it will be important to have the pulp completely removed. This is the overall purpose of a root canal. A root canal removes the damaged area and seals the tooth back up to prevent additional damage.
Save your Natural Tooth
When damage occurs to your tooth, it is important to stop the decay from spreading to your other teeth. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to have the tooth extracted. Root canals are a strategy that helps you to remove the damaged part of your teeth, while saving the natural tooth. This can go a long way toward enhancing the appearance and health of your smile.
The idea of having a root canal tends to evoke a sense of anxiety. However, this shouldn’t be the case. Understanding the process can help you to prepare yourself and minimize any anxiety you may have. Our experts at Jenson Dental are passionate about providing superior dental services to protect the health of your teeth. For more information about root canals, contact us at Jenson Dental today!
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