At Waterloo Dental Centre, we understand that getting a root canal can be a scary procedure. Remember that root canals are a common and safe procedure to help you save your natural teeth. In this blog post, we’ll go over all you need to know about root canals, including what they are, when you might need one, and how to prepare.

Root Canal Treatment

A root canal, a dental procedure, may be required for a cracked or infected tooth. The dentist will first clean the root canals before removing any diseased or damaged pulp from inside the tooth, filling the cavity, and sealing it. The thin layer of pulp protects the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels.

What Entitles You To A Root Canal?

Root canal therapy is usually required when a tooth is broken or diseased. One or more of the reasons for this is a huge cavity, dental trauma, or shattered teeth. If the pulp gets infected or inflamed, unpleasant feelings, swelling, and, if left untreated, an abscess may appear. Root canal therapy is typically the best way to save a decaying or infected tooth and prevent extraction.

Signs That You Need A Root Canal

The following are typical signs that a root canal may be required:

  • Rust or tooth tan colour
  • Localized gum inflammation and pain
  • Persistent sensitivity to heat or cold, even after treating the root of the toothache.
  • A hidden gum protrusion next to the damaged tooth;

If you experience these symptoms, you need to see a dentist immediately. Your dentist can determine whether a root canal is required by conducting an oral examination and an X-ray.

Methods For A Root Canal

If a root canal is necessary, your dentist will explain the procedure and allay any worries. The procedure typically includes the following steps:

  • The dentist will use local anesthesia to make the tooth and the surrounding area painless.
  • The dentist makes a small incision in the tooth’s crown to remove the unhealthy or damaged pulp from the inside of the tooth.
  • Cleaning the root canals: The dentist will use small devices to shape and clean them so they are ready for filling.
  • The dentist will seal the tooth after filling it with gutta-percha, which mimics rubber.
  • Because teeth after a root canal are typically weak, a crown or filling to provide support and security is occasionally necessary.

After the procedure, you may feel unpleasant for a few days, but this is usually manageable with over-the-counter medicines.

How to Prepare for a Root Canal?

If you anticipate needing a root canal soon, there are a few things you can do to prepare. These include:

  • Arranging transportation: After the procedure, you won’t be able to drive yourself home because you’ll have had a local anesthetic.
  • Eating a small meal: You shouldn’t be overly hungry or too full while in therapy.
  • Taking any prescription medication: Before the procedure, follow the directions on all prescription medications that your dentist has prescribed.
  • Bringing headphones or music: You can bring headphones to block out the unpleasant sound of the dental equipment or listen to music.

Some Tips For Taking Care Of Your Teeth Following A Root Canal

It would be best if you took special care of your tooth after a root canal so that it would heal properly. This comprises:

  • Avoid chewy or crunchy foods to avoid pain or damage to your teeth, which may be sensitive for a few days.
  • Keeping proper oral hygiene: Continue to brush and floss regularly to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Following the operation, your dentist could suggest using a specific mouthwash for a few days.
  • Keeping in touch with your dentist: If necessary, your dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment to examine your tooth’s condition and place a crown or permanent filling.

Why Is It Good to Keep Your Natural Teeth?

It’s important to remember that even though the idea of a root canal may be scary, preserving your natural tooth is always the best choice. Natural teeth help maintain your jawbone’s integrity and support the teeth next to them. Moreover, they are frequently more durable and tougher than dental implants.

Sometimes, a tooth may need to be pulled if a root canal is not feasible. If so, you can discuss partial dentures, dental implants, and bridges with your dentist as replacement possibilities.

Need A Root Canal? Right Away, Dial Waterloo Dental Centre

The Waterloo Dental Centre is aware of how important it is to provide you with the best care possible while maintaining the well-being of your natural teeth. Call our office immediately if you experience tooth pain or other symptoms that could indicate a need for a root canal. Our highly trained dentists will collaborate with you to provide the care you need to maintain pain-free, healthy teeth.

Call 519-883-0505 to make an appointment or learn more about our services. We are delighted to help you have a beautiful, healthy smile!

DISCLAIMER: The advice offered is intended to be informational only and generic in nature. It is in no way offering a definitive diagnosis or specific treatment recommendations for your particular situation. Any advice offered is no substitute for proper evaluation and care by a qualified dentist.