What to Expect During a Root Canal

Understanding a root canal and how it helps you starts with understanding the structure of your teeth. The outer layer, the part we’re the most familiar with, is made of enamel. Enamel is a hard protective surface that protects the sensitive and porous dentin underneath. At the center of it all lay the living pulp of your tooth. When it becomes infected, a root canal may be called for to help save the tooth. You can call Sunset Dental to learn more, or you can read on to discover how root canals can help save your oral health.

What Is A Root Canal?

There are two answers to this question. “Root Canal” is a term that technically refers to the spaces inside your teeth where the pulp lay, especially down in the roots of the teeth. It is also used as a condensed form of “Root Canal Treatment,” which is the procedure that treats root canals when an infection sets in.

What Happens as Part of a Root Canal Treatment?

Once you and Dr. Kronquist have decided that a root canal is a proper approach to your oral health concerns, you’ll be scheduled for treatment. During this appointment, you’ll begin by receiving a local anesthetic that will numb the tooth and gums where the procedure will take place. Once this sets in, the dentist will use a drill to open your tooth and remove damaged and decayed material and pulp. This process can take some time, as leaving any infected tissue behind may result in the procedure needing to be done again. Once it has been cleaned out, the site will be disinfected, and a special material called gutta-percha will be put in place before the tooth is sealed. A temporary crown will then be put in place. A second appointment will involve Dr. Kronquist placing the final, permanent, crown in place.

Is Recovery From A Root Canal Painful or Difficult?

It’s not uncommon for patients to experience some degree of discomfort when chewing immediately after the root canal. This typically passes after a few days, and patients are advised not to chew with this tooth until it has gone away. This both avoids discomfort and helps to prevent the tooth from becoming infected again. Reinfection of the tooth can require the dentist to perform the entire root canal procedure all over again in order to ensure the tooth can remain in place. You should return to your normal dental hygiene practices immediately. Once the initial tenderness has passed, you can return to your normal dietary habits.

If you’ve been experiencing dental pain that you think may result from the infected pulp, it’s time to call Sunset Dental Group. Dr. Amanda Kronquist proudly serves her dental patient family throughout Santa Ana and the surrounding areas and is happy to accept new patients. Don’t wait for your dental concerns to become irrecoverable, contact our office and we’ll schedule you an appointment today! During your appointment, you’ll undergo a routine dental exam, cleaning, and discuss options for treating dental health concerns such as infected pulp.