Root Canal Treatment FAQ: What You Need to Know
At The Blvd Dentist, Dr. Martin Orro offers comfortable and effective root canal treatments to patients in the Lancaster, Palmdale, Rosamond, Antelope Acres, Quartz Hill, Pearblossom, and Leona Valley, California areas. Root canals often have a bad reputation for being painful, but our goal is to make the experience as comfortable as possible. Here are some frequently asked questions about root canal treatment to help you understand what to expect.
What is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment is a procedure used to remove damaged or infected tissue from inside a tooth. This tissue, called the pulp, contains nerves and blood vessels. During the treatment, Dr. Orro will clean out the infected pulp, disinfect the inside of the tooth, and then seal it to prevent further infection. Depending on the extent of the damage, a dental crown may be needed to restore the tooth’s strength and functionality.
Why Would I Need a Root Canal?
You might need a root canal if the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or damaged. This can happen due to a crack or chip in the tooth, deep decay, or repeated dental procedures on the tooth.
What are the Signs that I Need a Root Canal?
The most common sign that you need a root canal is persistent pain. This pain is often severe and can be triggered by hot or cold foods or even pressure on the tooth. Other signs include:
- Sore or tender gums
- Swollen gums with raised lumps
- Abscesses around the affected tooth
- General pain and swelling in the area
Is Root Canal Treatment Painful?
Root canal treatments are generally not painful. The procedure is done under local anesthesia, which numbs the affected area and ensures you don’t feel any pain during the treatment. Most patients report that a root canal is no more uncomfortable than having a cavity filled. After the procedure, any pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
The length of the procedure can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the complexity of the tooth’s structure. On average, a root canal takes about 60 to 90 minutes to complete. In some cases, multiple visits may be required to fully address the infection and restore the tooth.
What Should I Expect After the Procedure?
It’s normal to experience some discomfort or sensitivity for a few days after a root canal. Dr. Orro will provide aftercare instructions to help you manage any pain and ensure a smooth recovery. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a day or two after the procedure, using over-the-counter pain relief if necessary.
How Can I Prevent the Need for a Root Canal?
The best way to prevent the need for a root canal is to maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and avoiding excessive consumption of sugary foods and drinks can help keep your teeth healthy and free from decay.
Root canal therapy is a very common procedure. It has a reputation of being undesirable and painful. But when done properly it is actually painless. Every tooth in your mouth is composed of a crown and a root. When a cavity or bacteria penetrates the tooth, the root and its nerves become irritated. As a result, the bacteria within the pulp cavity needs to be removed and cleaned in order to restore the tooth to its healthy state. Following the procedure, the tooth is fragile and consequently is restored with the natural crown for a lifetime of durability. Root canals have a success rate of 95% or greater. Most root canals are diagnosed by patients’ sensitivities to a specific tooth. Be sure to consult your dentist if any symptoms or discomfort occur.
Contact Us
If you’re experiencing any symptoms of a tooth infection or need a root canal, don’t hesitate to contact The Blvd Dentist. Dr. Martin Orro and his team are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective dental care. Call us at (661) 943-2938 to schedule an appointment.
