A root canal treatment in Richmond, TX, is a dental procedure to save a severely damaged or infected tooth. It involves removing the damaged pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the canals, and filling and sealing the space to prevent further infection.
The pulp chamber contains vessels, nerves, and connective tissue nourishing teeth. When it becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, cracks, chips, or trauma, it can cause severe toothache, sensitivity, swelling, and even a dental abscess. The infection can spread and cause more severe health problems if not treated properly.
Why Do You Need A Root Canal Treatment?
There are several symptoms of why you need to visit a dentist near you for a root canal treatment.
- Pain
One common sign is experiencing a severe toothache, especially when applying pressure to the affected tooth. The toothache may be constant or may come and go.
- Tooth Sensitivity
Another sign is a sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, which may linger even after removing the hot or cold stimulus.
- Swelling and tenderness
Swelling and tenderness in the gums surrounding the affected tooth can be accompanied by the appearance of a small pimple-like bump on the gum.
- Discolouration
A change in tooth color may indicate that the nerve is dead or dying and bad breath or mouth taste.
How A Root Canal Treatment Is Done
A root canal treatment is a procedure to treat infected or inflamed pulp inside a tooth.
When the pulp is damaged, bacteria can grow and cause an infection or abscess, leading to pain and swelling. The procedure starts with the dentist numbing the area around the tooth.
Then, a rubber dam keeps it dry and free from saliva during the procedure. Next, the dentist creates an opening in the top of the tooth, and using small instruments, he will remove the infected or inflamed pulp from the canals and shape them to prepare for the filling material.
The canals are then filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha and sealed with a dental adhesive. Sometimes, a temporary filling is used until a permanent restoration, such as a crown, can be placed. The restoration will help to protect the tooth and prevent further damage.
Your dentist in 77469 will prescribe pain medication and provide aftercare instructions, such as avoiding hard and chewy foods and practising good oral hygiene. Overall, a root canal treatment is a common and effective way to save a damaged tooth and relieve pain and discomfort. Patients can expect a successful outcome and restored oral health with proper preparation and aftercare.
Aftercare Routine For A Root Canal Treatment
- Keep your teeth free of bacteria by brushing and flossing.
- Avoid hard or crunchy food for the first few days after your treatment that may cause discomfort or damage to the treated tooth or dislodge the temporary filling.
- Apply an ice pack to help alleviate pain and swelling.
- Your dentist may prescribe pain relievers to help manage any discomfort you may experience after your root canal treatment. Follow the instructions carefully and take the medication as prescribed.
- Attend follow-up appointments to ensure that your tooth is healing properly and to address any concerns you may have.
- Consider a dental crown. After the treatment, the tooth may become weaker and more susceptible to damage, and a dental crown can protect and strengthen the tooth.
When To Follow Up With Your Dentist After A Root Canal Treatment
Following up with your dentist after a root canal treatment is an essential step in ensuring that the treated tooth has healed properly and that you are not experiencing any complications. Typically, your dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment to evaluate the tooth and ensure it is healing as expected.
If the tooth has healed properly and there are no signs of infection, your dentist will likely schedule a final restoration appointment to place a crown or filling over the tooth to protect it from further damage or decay.
Contact your emergency dentist immediately if you experience pain and swelling; they could be signs of an infection or other complications requiring further treatment.
Conclusion
Having your tooth drilled and cleaned can be nerve-wracking, but it doesn’t have to be. Preparing for the procedure can ease your fears and make the experience more manageable. Visit Charm Dental in Richmond for more information about root canals and what you can expect.
