What to Expect During Your Root Canal

Don’t panic because your dentist in Aitkin, MN, mentioned a root canal. While the term ‘root canal’ sounds foreboding, it’s really not. Your dentist isn’t planning to dig a channel through your gums to the root of your tooth. Rather, he’s planning a simple procedure that saves your tooth, relieves your pain, and restores your smile. Here’s everything you need to know about root canals.

Your Root Canal Can Be Performed Right in Your Dentist’s Office

First, your dentist or endodontist will administer an anesthetic to ensure there’s no pain associated with your procedure. Next, they’ll remove any decay and make an opening in your tooth that allows them to access the pulp chamber. Any disease or infection found in the pulp chamber will be removed, and the chamber itself and any root canals that lead to it will be thoroughly flushed and cleaned. Once the canals are clean and dry, your dentist will fill them with a rubber compound and add a filling as a cap. At a subsequent visit, your dentist may place a crown over the tooth to stabilize its structure. At this point, your root canal is complete, and your tooth has been saved. If you previously had pain or swelling from infection, your root canal will eliminate it.

Follow-Up Care for Your Root Canal

Your tooth may be sensitive for a while following your root canal, but this will clear up over time. Usually, over-the-counter pain medications can mask any discomfort you might experience following a root canal. You’ll need to follow-up with your dental professional after your procedure, however, so they can ensure everything is going well with your restored tooth. Otherwise, there are usually no special instructions to follow after having a root canal.

If you’re struggling with a hole in your tooth, with pain or swelling in your face or neck, or with a serious toothache, these may be signs you need a root canal in Aitkin, MN. Call River Oaks Dental right away to schedule a consultation and X-rays. By diagnosing and treating your condition early, we may be able to save your tooth.