Have you been worrying about a root canal? If so, you’re not alone. Root canals are one of the most dreaded dental procedures, and for good reason. Not only can they be quite painful, but they can also take a long time to heal. In this blog post, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about root canal, from the basics of what a root canal is to the various symptoms you may experience. We’ll also discuss the procedure in detail, and give you tips on how to cope with aftercare. Once you’ve read this blog post, your worries about root canals will be put to rest!
What is a Root Canal?
Root canal is a procedure that doctors use to remove decay and problems from the roots of teeth. It’s a common procedure that can be quite helpful for patients experiencing pain or toothache, or if the root is curved or jagged. It’s important to understand the procedure and the possible risks so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not to have it done. The procedure often involves removing all of the diseased tissue inside the root canal and cleaning out any remaining debris with chemicals or water. It can be a difficult procedure, but with the right care, it can be highly effective in treating dental problems.
How long does a root canal take?
A root canal is a surgery that removes the infected roots of the dentin of your tooth. The procedure can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to complete, but it can take longer depending on the severity of the infection and how many teeth are affected. You’ll likely experience pain and swelling for several days after the procedure. Make sure to follow the doctor’s instructions carefully to avoid any complications.
Common Symptoms You Need a Root Canal
If you’re concerned about your root canal pain, it’s time to see a dentist. Root canal pain can be excruciating and can last for days. Here are the symptoms that should prompt you to consult a dentist;
Toothache that won’t go away
If you are experiencing a toothache that won’t go away, it is time to get a root canal treatment. A root canal treatment is the only treatment that can provide long-term relief from dental pain and discomfort. A root canal treatment usually involves the extraction of the infected pulp canals (the soft connective tissue inside of your tooth) and the insertion of a filling material that will serve as an anchor for your teeth. This procedure can be extremely painful, but fortunately, it has a high success rate in relieving chronic pain associated with toothaches.
Difficulty in swallowing food or drinking
If you are experiencing difficulty in swallowing food or drink, it might be a good idea to get a root canal treatment appointment with your dentist. Sometimes root canal therapy can become necessary as the pain and numbness caused by it make swallowing difficult. Furthermore, if the root canal wait is too long, the surgery will end up being more difficult and costly than needed.
Swelling around the tooth
If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, and redness around your tooth, it is time for root canal treatment. This is a sign that you have an infection and root canal treatment might be the best option for you. Tooth pain and swollen teeth will usually increase as the infection gets worse. In most cases, gum soft tissue can shrink away from the teeth as bacteria eats away at the soft dental pulp inside of them. If left untreated, this can lead to further tooth damage or even tooth loss due to nerve damage in your jawbone (mandibular pubis).
Sore throat
If your throat is constantly sore and doesn’t seem to get better even after taking painkillers, it might be time for a root canal treatment. A sore throat that lasts more than two weeks or the pain is unbearable can also mean you have a tonsil infection. However, there are other causes of discomfort in the mouth such as an infected tooth or gum problem.
What Causes a Tooth to Get Infected?
Tooth infections can be an unpleasant experience, but thankfully they’re relatively rare. By understanding the signs and symptoms of a tooth infection, you can take steps to prevent them from happening in the first place.
Bacteria can cause tooth infection
The damaged tooth is a major problem that can lead to tooth infection. This bacteria-caused illness can easily spread from the root of your teeth into the gum tissue and surrounding tissues. If left untreated, an infected tooth may even develop into an abscess or sepsis (a life-threatening condition caused by blood poisoning). In order to prevent tooth infection, take precautions such as brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing regularly.
Bad oral hygiene
Bad oral hygiene can cause a lot of dental problems. Not brushing your teeth regularly and neglecting to floss can lead to cavity and gum disease. In the worst-case scenario, an infected tooth might require root canal treatment or even extraction. Taking care of your oral health is definitely worth the effort. Make sure you take the necessary steps to ensure good oral hygiene!
Untreated dental problems
Untreated dental problems can lead to a number of dental infections that can require root canal treatment in order to restore oral hygiene. Tooth decay is the most common cause of dental infection, and untreated teeth often become infected due to plaque and bacteria buildup. Untreated teeth also suffer from reduced lifespan as they are more prone to decay and other damage.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is the most common dental problem and it can cause tooth infection, decay, and even fractures. If you’re experiencing a toothache, there’s a good chance it’s due to an infection. To prevent or treat dry mouth, drink plenty of water (especially if you’re suffering from gum pain), brush your teeth twice a day with soft bristles that sweep across the gum line rather than back-and-forth motions, take oral medications as prescribed by your dentist etcetera
Root Canal Aftercare Tips
Following the aftercare tips provided by your dentist after a root canal procedure is essential for a successful outcome.
- Make sure to keep your head elevated,
- Avoid using tobacco, caffeine, and alcohol while you’re recovering.
- Drink plenty of fluids, and eat soft foods to promote healing and reduce inflammation.
- Repeat rinsing your mouth frequently with salt water or ice to avoid tooth discomfort.
- Take pain medication as prescribed by the dentist.
- Make sure to visit your dentist for regular check-ups.
Conclusion
Root canal surgery is a procedure that is used to remove the root canal tooth’s root. The root canal procedure can take anywhere from one to two hours, and the anesthesia you receive will help you feel little pain during the procedure. After the root canal treatment, your dentist will give you instructions on how to take care of your tooth and prevent it from getting infected again. Make sure to read our blog for complete information on root canal surgery, including how long it takes and the common symptoms that may lead you to the dentist. Thank you for reading!