If you’ve heard of a root canal or think you might need one, you might have some questions. But what is a root canal to begin with?
A root canal is a common dental treatment that helps save a tooth from being pulled out. It might sound a bit scary, but don’t worry!
We’re here to explain what happens during a root canal, why it’s needed, and how it can help keep your tooth healthy. We’ll also answer your questions and help you feel more confident about the process.
Let’s dive in!
What Is A Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that helps fix a tooth that has been hurt or infected. Inside each tooth, there is a soft tissue called the dental pulp. This pulp has nerves, blood vessels, and small tissues that help your tooth stay healthy.
The dentist carefully removes the infected pulp from inside the tooth during a root canal. After cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, it is filled with a material to keep it strong. This treatment helps stop the infection and prevents the tooth from needing to be pulled out.
Root canals are a common and effective way to save a tooth that would otherwise be lost. With this endodontic treatment, your tooth can be saved and stay healthy, so you don’t have to worry about losing it.
Why Would You Need A Root Canal?
There are different reasons why you might need a root canal. Here’s what to know:
- Infected Or Damaged Tooth: Tooth decay, also called a cavity, can sometimes spread deep into the tooth and reach the soft tissue inside. This can cause the tissue, called the pulp, to become infected, leading to pain.
- Cracked Or Broken Teeth: If your tooth cracks or breaks, it can allow bacteria to enter the tooth, which might infect the pulp.
- Repeated Dental Work: If a tooth has had many fillings or other dental treatments, it may become weak and more likely to get infected.
- Severe Tooth Decay: When tooth decay is deep, it can affect the pulp, causing an infection or even death of the pulp tissue.
If you notice pain when chewing or touching your tooth, feel sensitivity to hot or cold for a long time, or see swelling around the gums, make sure to see a dentist. They can tell if you need a root canal to save your tooth.
Signs You Might Need A Root Canal
There are some clear signs that you might need a root canal. If you notice any of these symptoms, visiting your dentist is a good idea. Catching the problem early can make treatment easier and help save your tooth. Here are the most common signs:
Tooth Pain
Pain in your tooth is one of the biggest signs you might need a root canal. The pain might feel sharp, throbbing, or even constant. It may hurt when you chew, press on the tooth, or even when you’re just resting. If the pain doesn’t go away, you should see your dentist.
Sensitivity To Hot Or Cold
If your tooth hurts when you eat or drink something hot or cold, this could mean the tooth is infected. The pain might last even after you stop eating or drinking, and it can be really uncomfortable. It might feel worse when you drink something cold or eat something hot.
Swelling Or Tenderness In The Gums
Swollen or tender gums around your tooth can be a sign that there is an infection. The gums might look red or feel sore. Sometimes, you might notice a soft bump or lump on your gums, which is called an abscess. This happens when there’s an infection inside the tooth.
Darkened Or Discoloured Tooth
If your tooth changes colour and starts to turn darker than the others, it could be a sign that the pulp inside is damaged or infected. The pulp is the soft part of the tooth that holds nerves and blood vessels. If it gets infected, the tooth may turn darker, which is a clear warning sign.
A Pimple On Your Gums
Sometimes, when an infection is deep inside a tooth, it can cause a small pimple-like bump to form on the gums near the tooth. This bump might leak pus and is a sign that the infection is spreading. If you see this, you should see your dentist immediately.
If you notice any of these signs, you must visit your dentist as quickly as possible. The sooner you get help, the easier it will be to fix the problem and save your tooth.
The Root Canal Procedure
Root canal therapy typically differs from one person to another depending on how serious the infection is and how healthy the tooth is. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what happens during the procedure:
Step 1: Diagnosis And Consultation
Before starting the root canal, your dentist will carefully examine your tooth and take X-rays to determine the extent of the damage or infection. They will also ask about your health history before they recommend root canal treatment.
Step 2: Accessing The Pulp
Step 3: Cleaning And Shaping The Root Canals
After the pulp is removed, the dentist will clean and shape the tiny canals inside the tooth. This helps get rid of any leftover bacteria and prepares the tooth for filling. This step is really important to make sure the infection is completely gone.
Step 4: Filling The Root Canals
Once the canals are cleaned and shaped, the dentist will fill them with a rubber-like root canal filling material that is okay for your body. This material helps seal the affected tooth to keep it okay from infections in the future.
Step 5: Sealing The Tooth
Next, the dentist will seal up the small hole in the top of your tooth. Depending on how much of the tooth is left, they may use a temporary or permanent filling. If the tooth is very damaged, the dentist might put a crown on top to help support and protect it.
What To Expect After The Procedure
Feeling a little sore or tender around the treated tooth after your root canal treatment is normal. This is because the area might still be healing. You may feel this discomfort for a few days, but don’t worry—it’s usually mild and can be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers.
It’s very important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions so your tooth heals well. Here are some tips to help you take care of your treated tooth:
- Good Oral Hygiene: Continue brushing and flossing your teeth every day, including the treated tooth. This helps keep your teeth and gums healthy and avoids any future problems. Be gentle around the treated area if it feels sore.
- Avoid Chewing On The Treated Side: If your dentist used a temporary filling, do not chew or bite on that side of your mouth until the permanent filling or crown is placed. This helps prevent any damage to the treated tooth while it’s still healing.
- Be Aware Of Sensitivity: You might notice that the treated tooth feels a little sensitive to hot or cold food and drinks for a short time. This is normal and should go away as the tooth heals. Contact your dentist if the condition does not improve or the pain becomes more intense.
Following these simple steps and staying in touch with your dentist will help your treated tooth heal well and stay strong for many years. If you have any concerns or if you feel like something isn’t right, do not hesitate to ask your dentist for advice.
What Happens When You Delay Root Canal
If you wait too long to get a root canal, your infected tooth can get worse. An untreated infection can spread deeper into the tooth or even into the surrounding bone. This can cause more pain and problems for your oral health. In some cases, it may lead to the need for a tooth extraction, which means your tooth will need to be removed.
When a tooth is removed, it can cause some issues. For example, the teeth next to the empty space may shift, which could lead to misalignment. This can affect your bite and make it harder to chew properly. Besides, if you lose a tooth, you might need further dental work to fill the gap. This could include getting dental implants, bridges, or dentures, which may cost more and take more time than getting a root canal.
By having a root canal as soon as your dentist recommends it, you can save your natural tooth and restore its strength, shape, and appearance so that you can continue enjoying your smile and eating without problems.
Can A Root Canal Fail?
Root canal treatment is usually very successful and can save your tooth. Yet, there are times when a root canal may not work as expected. Here are a few reasons why a root canal might fail:
- Incomplete Removal Of Infected Tissue: If some of the infected tissue is left behind in the root canal system after the procedure, root canal infection can come back. This can cause more pain and discomfort.
- Cracks Or Fractures In The Tooth: Sometimes, a tooth might have a crack or a break. These cracks can let bacteria back into the tooth, which can cause the infection to return.
- Overfilled Or Underfilled Root Canals: If the dentist does not fill the root canal properly, it may not be fully sealed. This can lead to the tooth not healing correctly and the infection coming back.
If you continue to feel pain or discomfort after having a root canal, your dentist might suggest a second treatment. This is called retreatment. In this process, your dentist will reopen the tooth, remove the old filling material, clean the infected root canal, and fill it to ensure the infection is gone.
It’s important to follow up with your dentist if you feel any unusual pain or symptoms after a root canal so they can help you keep your tooth healthy.
Root Canal Cost In Australia
The cost of a root canal treatment can vary depending on factors such as the case’s complexity, the tooth’s location, and the dentist’s fees. For example, the cost of a root canal on a front tooth is typically less than that for a molar, as the latter involves more complex procedures.
Many health insurance plans cover part of the cost of root canal treatment, but it’s important to check with your insurance provider for specifics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a root canal painful?
You shouldn’t feel much pain during the procedure because your dentist will numb the area around your tooth with a local anaesthetic. After the numbness wears off, you might feel a little discomfort, but this usually doesn’t last very long.
How long does a root canal take?
A root canal usually takes one to two hours, depending on which tooth is being treated and how complicated the case is. You will need two visits to complete the whole process.
Can I eat after a root canal?
After a root canal, wait until the numbness goes away before eating. This helps you avoid biting your tongue or cheek by mistake. If you have a temporary filling, try not to chew on that side of your mouth until your dentist puts in the permanent filling.
Can I drive after a root canal?
Yes, you may drive after a root canal, especially if only a local anaesthetic is used. But if you were given a sedative or general anaesthesia, it’s best to have someone drive you home.
Will I need a crown after a root canal?
After a root canal, your dentist might put a crown on your tooth. A crown helps protect the tooth and keeps it strong. Your dentist will discuss with you whether a crown is needed for your tooth.
Can children need root canals?
Yes, children can sometimes need a root canal if their teeth are very infected or damaged. Root canals for kids are like those for adults, but they are done carefully to ensure the child feels comfortable.
Can a root canal be done on an abscessed tooth?
Yes, a root canal can be done on a tooth with an abscess. The dentist will remove the infected tissue and clean the abscess, which can stop the pain and the infection from spreading.
Conclusion
Brushing, flossing, and going to regular dental check-ups are very important for keeping teeth and gums healthy. If you need a root canal, you will be in good hands with dentists who will make sure you are well taken care of and that your tooth heals properly.
If you think you might need a root canal, We’re in Bulimba! Contact Balmoral Dental Centre today at (07) 3113 9789 to schedule a visit. Our friendly dental team is here to help you feel comfortable and take care of your smile.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Sources
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