Root Canal Treatment at Lakeside Dental

Are you considering root canal treatment at Lakeside Dental but need help knowing where to start? You're in the right place! Read on to find out more! All you need to know about root canal therapy will be covered in this blog post, including what it is, why you might need it, how it's carried out, and what to anticipate when having the process done. Whether you've been referred to Lakeside Dental for root canal treatment or just doing your research, you will find all the information you want in this guide.

What is a Root Canal Treatment?

A dental procedure called a root canal repairs diseased or damaged teeth. It involves removing the diseased pulp from inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the chamber and root canals, and then filling and sealing the area. Root canal treatment can help to restore a damaged or decayed tooth, relieve tooth pain, and prevent further damage or infection.

During the procedure, a dentist will make an opening in the top of the tooth, remove the pulp and any debris from within, clean and disinfect the area, shape and fill the chamber and root canals with an inert material, and seal the opening with a crown or other restoration. Several visits may be required to complete the procedure, depending on the tooth's condition.

Root canal treatment can help to save a damaged or decayed tooth and protect it from further damage or infection. It is a relatively simple and quick procedure that can relieve pain and other symptoms caused by an infected or decayed tooth.

Why Might I Need a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure to help save an infected or damaged tooth. In most cases, it's necessary when a tooth's pulp becomes infected due to deep decay, trauma, or other dental conditions. If the infection is not treated, it may spread to other teeth and result in significant oral health issues. When this happens, a root canal can help to clean the infection out of the pulp chamber and restore the affected tooth.

Root canals are also recommended if the pulp becomes irritated or inflamed due to damage to the tooth, such as a crack or fracture. This is because damage to the tooth's hard outer layer (enamel) can expose the softer inner layers to bacteria, which can then cause an infection. Root canals are also sometimes necessary to prevent further damage. For instance, a root canal may be required to avoid additional infection or injury if a cavity has gotten too close to the nerve. It's important to note that not all symptoms of a damaged or infected tooth may be immediately apparent. That's why it's essential to visit your dentist regularly so they can catch any potential issues before they become too serious.

What Can I Expect During the Procedure?

At Lakeside Dental, a root canal procedure usually takes one or two appointments. During the first appointment, your dentist will give you a local anesthetic to numb the area around the infected tooth. They will then open the top of the tooth and use specialized dental tools to clean out the infected pulp from the root canal.

After the pulp is removed, your dentist will shape and clean the inside of the canal. Once done, your dentist will fill the canal with gutta-percha and seal the opening. They may also take X-rays to ensure all the infected tissue has been removed. After ensuring the root canal is properly sealed at your second session, your dentist will cover the tooth with a crown to preserve it and give it a more appealing, natural appearance.

Depending on the surgery's complexity, the whole thing usually takes one to two hours. You can expect minor pain and sensitivity during and after the procedure, but this should subside within a few days. Your dentist can recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe stronger medications if necessary.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

Recovery from a root canal typically takes anywhere from one to two weeks. After the procedure, your dentist will provide instructions on how to care for the treated tooth. Nonetheless, it is essential to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper healing.

You may experience discomfort, swelling, and sensitivity during this time. This is common and will go away when the wound heals. You may be prescribed antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection and an anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen to help with pain or discomfort.

A crown or other restoration may sometimes be required after the procedure to protect the tooth from further damage. If this is necessary, it will take a few weeks for the restoration to be completed. During this time, avoiding chewing on the affected side and practicing good oral hygiene is essential. Overall, recovery time depends on the individual and the severity of the case. However, most people can return to normal activities within one to two weeks of the procedure.

Are There Any Risks Associated with Root Canals?

Yes, there are several risks associated with root canals. Because of the procedure of the root canal, sometimes a tooth is re-infected, leading to pain, inflammation, and further damage to the tooth. The infected tissue may also spread to the surrounding tissue, resulting in gum disease or a dental abscess. In rare cases, there can also be an allergic reaction to the anesthetic or materials used in the procedure. Occasionally, an infection may develop in the root canal after the procedure. This post-treatment endodontic infection is often difficult to detect and treat.