The root canal is one of the most misunderstood treatments in dentistry. It is also unfairly identified as being a painful and scary treatment. In reality, a root canal will be no more traumatic or painful than a simple extraction. And the good news is that a root canal can actually help you to avoid drastic steps like an extraction.
In this in-depth guide, we’re getting into the nitty-gritty of the root canal procedure. We’ll explore the steps involved in this procedure, when you might need one, and what can happen if the treatment fails. By the end of this guide, you should feel more confident about your root canal treatment and more prepared for the road ahead.
What is a root canal?
A root canal, or root canal therapy, is a treatment to help address an infection in the root of the tooth. This type of infection can lead to a painful abscess on the root which leads to swelling in the face and neck.
Once an infection has spread to the root of the tooth, the pulp dies, which cuts off the blood supply to the tooth. This can lead the tooth to become darkened and brittle, and it will eventually break down and need to be extracted.
Thankfully, a root canal can save the tooth before complete failure. This procedure works by removing the damaged centre of the tooth and re-filing it. The tooth is then protected from damage with a crown, allowing you to retain your natural teeth for as long as possible.
When do you need a root canal?
If you have decay in your tooth that spreads to the root, your dentist may recommend a root canal to preserve the tooth. This is why regular dental checkups are essential. By going to the dentist every 6-12 months, your dentist can monitor any instances of tooth decay and offer treatment interventions before the decay spreads and triggers an infection.
It’s not always visible decay that can lead to a root canal treatment. It’s also possible to suffer cracks or chips in your teeth that are not immediately obvious to you. Without a repair, the inner section of your tooth will be vulnerable to damage.
If a root canal is unlikely to be effective, your dentist may recommend extraction followed by a restoration such as a dental implant, bridge or partial denture. Extraction should always be a last resort, and will only be required if you have ignored a dental problem for too long.
So, if you’re experiencing any dental pain, always book an appointment to see your dentist and get to the heart of the problem. Even if the pain goes away while waiting for your checkup, you still need to attend.
What happens during root canal therapy?
You will be completely numbed during root canal treatment, so you will need a few injections into your gums before the treatment can get started. Working on an active infection can be more painful, as it’s more difficult to make these areas numb.
Your dentist will take their time to make sure you are completely numb before they start treatment, and you can request more anaesthetic throughout if you are in any discomfort.
Once numb and comfortable, the treatment can begin. First, your dentist will drill away the top of the tooth to expose the soft pulp. Next, they use small drill bits to scrape away the infected tissue inside the tooth. Each of the tooth roots, or canals, needs to be carefully cleaned to ensure the infection is completely cleared.
When the canals are completely cleaned and flushed out, your dentist will fill the canals with small posts. These help to provide strength to the tooth structure. The tooth roots are then filled with a putty-like material, which will set hard and provide further support.
Finally, the top of the tooth can be covered with a dental filling. If the tooth is damaged and requires greater support, your dentist might create a dental crown. A dental crown can also improve the appearance of the tooth if it has become darkened.
What is the recovery time following a root canal?
In the hours following the procedure, you might want to take it easy, not least because you will still be feeling the effects of the dental anaesthetic. You shouldn’t experience pain after the procedure, because the procedure has addressed the cause of your pain. By removing the active infection, you should find that your pain is diminished.
The tooth might feel strange and slightly sensitive following root canal treatment. You may want to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth until this strange sensation has passed. You should also avoid very hot or very cold food, as your teeth might be more sensitive.
Once this feeling has passed, you should experience no further issues with your tooth, and the pain from the infection should also cease.
There are a few signs that you should look out for, as this could indicate that the root canal has failed.
- If the pain returns after a root canal, call your dentist to let them know.
- If you have sharp pain when biting down, this could also be a sign that the infection has returned.
- You should also look out for swelling of the jaw or gums around the affected tooth.
- If there is pus discharge from the gums around your tooth, this is another sign that the infection has not been completely cleared.
There are a few reasons a root canal can fail. First, it could be that bacteria remained in the roots and was not fully cleaned out. It’s also possible that you have a small hole in the root of your tooth that is allowing bacteria to enter.
Arrange your root canal today
If you’ve been told you need a root canal, don’t delay treatment. The longer you leave it, the worse the damage will be, and the more likely it will be that you need to have the tooth extracted. Get in touch with our team today if you need to arrange a root canal treatment.