Root Canal![]() Root Canal ProcedureA tooth's pulp could be damaged easily, and the most common symptom is persistent and extreme pain in a tooth's root area. Severe sensitivity to temperature exposed to the tooth might indicate the need for a root canal procedure. An abscess might contain pus or blood around the gums, cheeks, and throat. A very deepened cavity needs a root canal procedure. The procedure takes one or two office settings depending on the severity of the condition and the patient's general state. The dentist first numbs the tooth using local anesthesia to make the patient comfortable, and inserts a rubber device made to clamp around the tooth and aid in isolating the tooth from the rest. The dentist makes an incision on the tooth to expose the pulp chamber. The dentist then scrapes off the inflamed constituents using a special dental device. The dentist also drills around and shapes the canals to remove any infected debris, and the area is cleaned thoroughly and disinfected to remove the remaining bacteria. The dentist has to place a temporary crown on the tooth to cover it from bacteria during the healing process. Antibiotics are recommended to ensure bacteria is kept under control. The patient has to wait for the pulp chamber to heal before a permanent prosthesis is placed to restore the tooth. When it is time to fill the pulp chamber, the dentist first removes the temporary filling; the tooth canals are filled with gutta-percha and sealant. A dental crown could be recommended later to support the tooth structure to ensure it is not easily fractured. Following Up After The ProcedureFollow-up appointments are recommended to ensure the dentist keeps track of the tooth to heal smoothly. The dentist examines the tooth and may use x-rays for a better view. You might experience pain after the surgery. Still, the dentist will recommend pain medication and home remedies to bring down the swelling, soreness, and discomfort. Root canal healing is not as complicated, and one should return to their normal schedule after a day. Lifestyle habits like smoking tobacco and drinking alcohol aggravate oral health and make healing after a root canal difficult. Some general health conditions like diabetes are among the common risk factors to necessitate a root canal and complicate the healing process after the procedure. Root canals are restorative procedures, and patients enjoy these benefits differently, depending on how well they are taken care of. We will ensure your teeth are in healthy condition at Columbia Dental. Call to book an appointment with us at (860) 743-9032. |