Have you been told recently that you are in need or a root canal?
Do you fear that the pain in your mouth is suggesting that you might?
Are you just curious to know exactly what the procedure entails?
If you have answered yes, then this article is for you.
The root canal is a very commonly performed procedure in most dental offices and is a corrective measure taken to prevent further issue within the mouth. The need for this stems from an issue with the nerve of the tooth, which resides in the dental pulp within the enamel casing. That outer shell is meant as a defensive mechanism, but it doesn’t always hold up and once bacteria are allowed to enter the pulp, it can quickly wreak havoc on it, as well as the nerve.
When that bacterium is allowed to multiply within the soft tissue, it can create a tooth abscess – a puss filled pocket. This can lead to face, neck and head swelling, along with a great deal of discomfort. Of course, this is only obvious when the situation has progressed to a point of severity.
In some instances, the need for a root canal is not immediately evident. However, there are warning signs to look for.
If you suddenly experience pain when biting in one particular area of the mouth, if a particular tooth has a new and severe sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages, or a tooth begins to change in color, then it is time to schedule a visit with the dentist.
This appointment may not be considered an emergency, but should be scheduled as soon as possible, so the bacteria are not allowed to spread further.
Some people make the mistake of hesitating due to the cost of this practices and other dental related. This is not suggested as the expense will increase exponentially if the bacteria are allowed to spread. There is evidence that a mouth diseases are tied to heart disease, which means that you could be risking more than a pulled tooth.
The associated cost of having the root canal performed can range significantly between offices and depending on whether or not a specialist is required. A general office procedure may cost in the neighborhood of four- to eight hundred dollars.
So, what should one expect when entering the dental chair?
The first step is to access the problem and schedule the actual procedure.
Once arriving on the day of the root canal, the area will be cleaned well and anesthesia will be administered, in order to alleviate any discomfort that would otherwise be felt.
A hole must be drilled deep into the tooth to remove the affected tissue and clean any remaining bacteria away and then it can be filled with a sealer before a crown is fit over the tooth. The crown protects the tooth, adding stability and a barrier against future bacteria and decay.
After the procedure is complete, the patient will likely be evaluated until it is felt that he or she has overcome the effects of anesthesia enough to be sent home.
For a few days thereafter, he or she should expect some pain. The tissue surrounding the tooth will likely be swollen and tender. However, pain medications will be prescribed to alleviate those symptoms and help with recovery.
To prevent the need for this type of procedure in the future, it is essential to continue a regular oral hygiene routine that involves brushing at least twice daily, flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist every six months.
If any tooth suffers a crack, chip, or cavity, it should be treated immediately, as these damages to the enamel may allow bacteria to reach the soft tissue.
