Inside each of your teeth is dental pulp. The dental pulp has many important functions, such as supplying your tooth with nutrients and nerves. However, if the dental pulp becomes infected or injured, it can harm the well being of your tooth. This can happen as a result of a cavity, crack, chip, or blow to the tooth. Thus, to save your tooth, a root canal removes the infected or damaged dental pulp. The tooth’s inner canal is then cleaned, refilled it, and sealed.
What’s the success rate of root canals?
Thanks to modern dental techniques and tools, the success rates of root canals are extremely high. As long you take care of the tooth with proper oral hygiene, there’s a good chance it will last for a very long time. During your examination, we will check to see if a root canal is an appropriate treatment for the tooth. If it’s not, we will let you know, and go over all of your options to find the best solution.
Will I feel any pain during or after a root canal?
At 16th Street Dental, we strive to make your dental experience as smooth and comfortable as possible. You’ll be given an anesthetic to numb the tooth. In fact, you won’t feel a thing during the procedure. However, it’s common for the treated tooth to be sensitive or sore for a few days after the procedure. A non-aspirin painkiller, such as Tylenol, Nuprin, or Advil, should help to manage the discomfort. However, if your tooth is extremely painful following a root canal, please contact is right away.
What are the common symptoms after a root canal?
Some of the common symptoms include minor soreness, sensitivity, and aching. This is normal and should go away within a few days. Often times, this can be managed by taking a non-aspirin painkiller, such as Tylenol or Advil.
However, if you’re experiencing excessive pain or swelling, or if the temporary filling becomes loose, contact us right away.
How to care for your tooth after a root canal
Because the unrestored tooth can break, be extremely careful while chewing. Don’t chew on the tooth until it is fully restored since it can still fracture. Following your root canal, you should complete the treatment as soon as possible, which includes coming back to the office to have a post or filling and a crown placed. If you have any more questions, contact 16th Street Dental to set up an appointment.