A root canal is a treatment of the soft inner part of your tooth (the pulp) when it becomes inflamed or infected. Keeping your teeth healthy can help avoid the need for a root canal or other extensive dental procedures. Root canal treatment is usually very effective. If the treatment is not successful, your only alternative is to have your tooth pulled.
Symptoms of an infected tooth include pain, swelling, and/or sensitivity to hot or cold. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should inform your Hayes dentist immediately.
Root Canal: What to Expect from the Procedure
During a root canal, your dentist will create an opening through the top of your tooth. They will then remove the infected pulp and clear away bacteria with small dental instruments called root canal files. The canals are then cleaned with water or a disinfectant, usually sodium hypochlorite.
Once the canals have been cleared, they are filled with a rubber-like material called gutta percha and sealed with a temporary filling. Your dentist may seal the tooth on the same day as the cleaning or wait a few days to allow the root canal time to heal.
After a root canal, your tooth and gums will feel sore, but this can be eased with over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen. It is important to limit chewing on the affected tooth until it has been permanently filled and covered with a crown.…