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Root Canal
A root canal is a procedure designed to save a seriously infected tooth. We often recommend this treatment for those with inflammation or infection in the roots of a tooth.
Root canals are often portrayed in movies and TV as painful or scary. Fortunately, at London Dental Care, modern techniques and medicines allow us to perform this procedure with very little discomfort to our patients. Root canals are effective, straightforward, and have very minimal risk involved.
Do I Need a Root Canal?
Root canals can alleviate pain and discomfort in patients with severe infection or decay in the soft tissue of a tooth. Infections can exist without warning signs. However, they are usually easy to spot.
Some signs you may need a root canal procedure include:
- Tooth or gum pain
- Sensitivity to heat or cold
- Discoloration of the gums
- An unusually tender tooth
- Swelling or tenderness in the lymph nodes beneath the jaw
- A tooth abscess
- Pus drainage in the mouth
Call us right away if you are experiencing any of these symptoms. Early treatment can mean the difference between saving a tooth and having to extract it.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal, or endodontic treatment, involves the removal of the infected pulp and soft tissue along the tooth’s nerve. This nerve is located inside the tooth’s root canal or pulp chamber. After the infected tissues are removed from your tooth, your dentist will clean the tooth and fill it with a hard, protective material.
To finish your treatment, your tooth will be topped with a permanent crown. Your crown will be designed to match the color of your teeth and will look and feel just like new!
How Root Canals Are Done
To begin, your dentist will apply a local anesthetic to the affected area. An additional sedative, such as laughing gas, may be provided to patients with dental anxiety. After your anesthetic has taken effect, your dentist will place a dental dam around the tooth to isolate it and keep the area free of saliva.
Next, he or she will make a small opening at the top of the tooth. Any infected pulp and tissue will be carefully cleaned and disinfected. Once all of the infection has been removed, your dentist will shape the tooth’s root canal to make it ready for the filling.
Once your tooth has been cleaned and medicated, it will be filled with sturdy, rubber-like material. This material is biocompatible and will not cause any pain or irritation. Your dentist will finish the procedure by placing either a temporary filling or a permanent dental crown over the tooth. This will strengthen the tooth while protecting it from additional infection.
Re-Infection Risks
Unfortunately, it is sometimes possible for a tooth that has had a root canal to become re-infected. If you believe your tooth has become infected again, call right away and speak to your dentist about possible treatments.
If you are interested in learning about root canals, contact our office today at 740-852-5771 to talk with a member of our team or schedule an appointment. We are always happy to answer your questions and discuss your treatment options!
Root Canal FAQs
A root canal can save a damaged or infected tooth and help you avoid extraction. While the procedure is common, many patients have questions about what to expect before, during, and after treatment. We’ve answered some of the most common questions below to help you feel more informed and confident about your care.
- Do I need a root canal if the tooth doesn’t hurt?
- How is a root canal done?
- Does a root canal take a long time?
- Can I smoke after a root canal?
- Is it possible for my tooth to get reinfected?
- What happens if my root canal fails?
- How long will a tooth last after a root canal?
Possibly. While tooth pain is a common sign of infection, not every tooth that needs a root canal will hurt. In some cases, the nerve inside the tooth may no longer be functioning, eliminating pain even though the infection persists. Swelling, discoloration, sensitivity, or findings on an X-ray can all indicate the need for treatment.
During a root canal, the infected or damaged tissue inside the tooth is carefully removed. The canals are then cleaned, disinfected, and filled with a special material that helps prevent future infection. In many cases, a dental crown is recommended afterward to strengthen and protect the treated tooth.
Most root canals can be completed in one or two appointments, depending on the condition of the tooth and the complexity of the treatment. Many patients are surprised to find that the procedure is often as long as when receiving a large filling.
It’s best to avoid smoking during the healing period. Smoking can slow healing, increase inflammation, and make it more difficult for your body to recover. Avoiding tobacco products for several days after treatment can help support the best possible outcome.
Although root canals have a high success rate, reinfection can occur in some situations. This may happen if new decay develops, a restoration becomes damaged, or bacteria return to the tooth. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene can help reduce this risk.
If a root canal doesn’t heal as expected, additional treatment may be available. Depending on the situation, your dentist may recommend retreatment, a specialized endodontic procedure, or tooth replacement options if the tooth cannot be saved. The sooner a problem is addressed, the more treatment options are typically available.
A tooth that has received a root canal can last for many years, and often a lifetime, with proper care. Maintaining good oral hygiene, attending routine dental visits, and protecting the tooth from excessive wear all contribute to long-term success.
If you have questions about root canal treatment or are experiencing tooth pain, call London Dental Care today. Our team is here to help you protect your oral health and keep your smile comfortable and functional for years to come.
