Facts You Should Know About Root Canal Treatment

If you’re like a lot of people, the thought of root canal treatment can seem like a frightening dental procedure. But contrary to what many people think, it’s not.

In fact, root canal treatment doesn’t cause pain – it makes it go away!

The team here at Mercado Dental Care in Scottsdale, AZ have compiled a list of some of the most commonly asked questions we hear in our practice. We hope they help alleviate some of the anxiety you may be experiencing if you’ve been told you need a root canal treatment.

Why would a tooth need root canal treatment? If the tissues in the root canal of your tooth become infected or inflamed because of decay or trauma to the tooth, root canal treatment is needed to treat the infection and save your tooth. If left untreated, root canal infection can spread into the bone immediately around the root and cause further problems.

What is a root canal? It’s the central chamber of a tooth which contains the living vital tissues comprising the pulp which includes the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels. Simply put, it’s the interior of the tooth’s roots containing the pulp.

What are the symptoms of a root canal infection? Symptoms of root canal infection vary and can include sharp, intense pain when you bite down, a dull ache or pressure, or tenderness and swelling in the gums near your infected tooth. Additionally, you may experience lingering pain after eating cold or hot foods. Be aware, however, that sometimes an infected tooth may temporarily stop hurting. This doesn’t mean the infection has gone, but it does mean that the nerve may have died.

What should I expect during the procedure for root canal treatment? First, a local anesthetic is administered to numb the tooth and surrounding area. Next, dead (or dying) tissue is removed. And last, the pulp chamber and the root canals are cleaned, disinfected, and sealed to prevent future infection.

What comes after treatment? Your tooth may feel tender or sensitive for a few days. Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen are often recommended to relieve pain or discomfort. A crown is frequently needed to protect the tooth following root canal treatment. In the meantime, it’s recommended that you don’t chew on the tooth until it has been fully restored.

Having root canal treatment doesn’t have to be a frightening experience. In fact, it can help you alleviate any oral pain or discomfort you may be experiencing.

Make an appointment today with Mercado Dental Care in Scottsdale, AZ to get started living pain-free!