What Is A Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that relieves pain caused by an infected tooth. In the root canal procedure, the inflamed pulp is removed. The surface inside the tooth is then cleaned, disinfected, and filled to seal the space.
When Is A Root Canal Needed?
Root canal treatment is required when oral bacteria invade the pulp inside your tooth which happens when a cavity remains untreated for a long time. It can also occur if your tooth is cracked or damaged. In certain cases, you may not know if you have an infected tooth. It is always best to consult our restorative dentist in Melissa, TX. Following are a few symptoms that indicate you might need root canal treatment.
- A tooth pain that doesn’t go away and discomfort radiating to your jaw, face, or other teeth
- You may be sensitive to heat and cold, and the pain will linger for more than a few seconds.
- You may have puffy, swollen, or tender gums because of infection.
- You may develop a pimple or boil on the gums, which may cause an unpleasant taste or smell.
- Your jaw may be visibly swollen.
- Your tooth may look darker or cause tooth discoloration.
- You will feel pain if pressure is applied while eating or touching your tooth. It could mean your nerves around the pulp are damaged.
How Should I Prepare For Root Canal Treatment?
Choose a doctor that you can trust and ask many questions. Call us now if you are looking for a root canal in Melissa, TX. Here are a few things you can do to prepare yourself for a root canal treatment.
- Take all the medications prescribed to you, such as antibiotics.
- Avoid smoking and consuming tobacco products as it interferes with your body’s ability to heal itself.
- Eat healthy meals as anesthesia is used for root canal therapy.
What Happens During The Root Canal Process?
Before beginning your procedure, the dentist will take a dental x-ray of your affected tooth. This will determine the extent of damage and will ensure that root canal therapy is the treatment for you. Following are steps that will be done during your root canal procedure:
- Local anesthesia is given to numb the infected tooth and gums.
- A small opening is made in the crown to access the pulp.
- Tiny dental instruments are used to remove the nerves, blood vessels, and tissues inside the tooth.
- Once the pulp is removed, the root canal is clean, disinfected, and shaped.
- The empty canals are filled with a flexible rubbery dental material called gutta-percha.
- A temporary dental filling is placed to seal the tooth and prevent the bacteria from re-entering.
In most cases, you will need a dental crown to protect your tooth and restore your bite. A dental crown is custom-made and fabricated and takes up to three weeks. After which, your temporary tooth is removed, and the permanent crown is placed.
Do Root Canals Hurt?
Many people worry that they will have severe tooth pain after root canal therapy. However, the source of infection is removed during the procedure, and most patients get immediate relief after the treatment. You may notice sensitivity for the first few days after the treatment. These symptoms are normal and can be managed with prescriptions. If you are looking to restore your smile, schedule an appointment for your root canal treatment in Melissa, TX.
Restorative Dentist In Melissa, TX.
Root canal treatment at Melissa Dental and Orthodontics will be done by our expert dentist or an endodontist. We offer special discounts and coupons for our new patients. Contact us now to schedule an appointment with the best restorative dentist in Melissa, TX.
