If you’ve been experiencing severe, persistent tooth pain, it could indicate an infection in the inner part of your tooth. In such cases, you might need a root canal treatment (RCT). This procedure is most often recommended to save the natural tooth instead of extracting it. The main goal of an RCT is to relieve pain and preserve your oral health.
Every year, millions of Americans undergo this procedure. But what really happens during the treatment? What are the root canal treatment stages, and what signs indicate the need for one? Let’s break it down.
What are the Common Signs or Symptoms that Your Tooth Needs a Root Canal Treatment?
If you have the following symptoms, you need an RCT:
- You are not able to eat or chew on the tooth.
- High sensitivity to both cold and hot foods or drinks.
- Pus discharge, or an abscess is forming in the gums adjacent to the infected tooth.
- Severe pain or soreness specific to a tooth.
- Experiencing spontaneous pain that isn’t triggered just by eating or drinking.
4 Stages of Root Canal Treatment
Before opting for it, you must have concerns about an RCT. Thanks to our modern dentistry and technology at Dental On First, there isn’t much to worry about. We make root canal treatment virtually pain-free.
Here are the different root canal stages your tooth will go through during the treatment:
Stage 1: Diagnosing the Infected Pulp
The pulp is the soft tissue inside your tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. An RCT is required when this part of the tooth has become infected.
If you have a persistent toothache, it’s important to visit your dentist. They can identify the cause of the pain and use advanced tools like digital imaging and X-rays to figure out whether a root canal is necessary.
Stage 2: Getting Rid of the Infected Pulp
The dentist will drill a small opening in the tooth to remove the infected pulp. The root canals are then cleaned and shaped using special instruments, and sometimes a medicated dressing is applied to make sure any remaining bacteria are eliminated.
After this stage, the canals are clean and ready for the next step in the treatment.
Stage 3: Placing a New Root Canal Filling
Your dentist will fill the chamber of the tooth that once hosted the infected pulp with a new root filler. An adhesive is used to seal the area and protect the new root filler from any saliva or bacteria.
The dentist may sometimes widen the root canal during stage two of a root canal treatment to clean out the infection. In this case, the tooth needs to be strengthened with a post or another method.
A temporary filling is placed at the top of the tooth over the opening.
Stage 4: The Tooth is Restored
You must make an appointment with your dentist after a few weeks of treatment to remove the temporary filling. The dentist will place a crown over the treated tooth, making your tooth as strong as it was before the infection.
Post-Operative Care: What to Expect After a Root Canal Treatment?
After an RCT, it’s normal to experience mild pain or discomfort, which usually subsides within 24-48 hours. Here’s what you should know about recovery and care:
- Mild tenderness is common: Any soreness can typically be managed with over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers.
- Avoid chewing on the treated side: Refrain from biting or chewing hard foods until the permanent crown is placed to prevent damage.
- Maintain proper oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to keep the area clean and reduce the risk of reinfection.
- Watch for warning signs: If pain persists, swelling develops, or you notice any unusual symptoms, seek immediate dental care.
- Follow-up appointments matter: Schedule routine checkups with your dentist to ensure healing is progressing and your oral health is maintained.
How Successful is a Root Canal Treatment?
Usually, a root canal treatment successfully saves your tooth and eliminates the infection. Around 9 out of 10 teeth treated with a root canal survive for almost 8 to 10 years. If you get a crown fitted to the tooth after treatment, it can further improve your tooth survival rates.
The survival of your tooth can also depend on other factors, like:
- The biting forces on the tooth.
- How much of the natural tooth remains?
- How well are you cleaning your teeth?
Conclusion
Root canal treatment is an excellent solution for preserving your natural teeth. The procedure may seem daunting at first, but understanding the different stages can help you feel more confident and prepared.
Don’t wait for the pain to worsen; if you experience sensitivity to hot or cold, visit your dentist promptly. Early treatment is always the best approach for long-term dental health.
Do You Need a Root Canal Treatment? Contact Dental On First Today!
At Dental on First, we use advanced imaging and modern instruments to perform root canal treatment. If you are looking for a trusted dentist in new prague, MN, call us today at 952-758-3003 or book an appointment online. You can also visit our clinic at 136 Main St W, New Prague, MN 56071, United States.
FAQs
- Is a root canal painful?
Root canal treatment is usually pain-free. While you may experience mild discomfort afterward, it can easily be managed with over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. During the procedure, local anesthesia ensures a smooth and comfortable treatment.
- Is a root canal better than extraction?
A root canal preserves and restores the natural tooth structure. If the tooth can be saved, RCT is generally the preferred choice. However, if the tooth is severely damaged or beyond repair, extraction may be the more suitable option. The decision depends on your dentist’s diagnosis and your individual needs.
- Is a crown necessary after a root canal?
Yes. A crown is strongly recommended to protect the treated tooth from fractures and to improve its long-term survival rate.
- How long does a root canal take?
Most root canals can be completed in 2-3 appointments. However, the number of visits may vary depending on the severity of the infection and the complexity of the case.