Your FAQs About Root Canal Treatment Answered
Have you been told you need root canal treatment and immediately panicked? Many people feel apprehensive about this dental procedure due to stories they’ve heard from friends or family or information they’ve read online. However, dental practises are continually advancing, and undergoing a root canal is no longer something to dread.
To help you better understand the process and know what to expect, we’ve gathered a long list of the questions our patients frequently ask about root canals, along with their answers. So whether you have an upcoming root canal appointment or are simply curious, this blog post contains all the vital information you need.
We regularly perform root canals to help save teeth from extraction. If you are experiencing tooth pain and are worried about a possible infection, please don’t hesitate to contact our Bristol dental practice today. We are here to help.
“What is a Root Canal?”
First, let’s start by explaining what a root canal is. A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage within the tooth’s pulp, which is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. The treatment involves removing the infected or damaged pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and then filling and sealing it to prevent further infection.
As dentists, we value root canals because they allow us to preserve natural teeth that might otherwise need extraction. This procedure promotes dental health and retains the integrity of your smile.
“Why Would I Need a Root Canal?”
You may need a root canal if you have a deep cavity, a cracked or chipped tooth, or an injury to the tooth that leads to inflammation or infection of the pulp. Common symptoms indicating the need for a root canal include:
- Severe toothache that persists despite over-the-counter medication,
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures,
- Swelling and tenderness in nearby gums,
- Darkening of the tooth,
- Bad taste in the mouth,
- Presence of pus.
“Is a Root Canal Painful?”
The most common question we receive from patients is whether a root canal is painful. Contrary to popular belief, a root canal procedure is not particularly painful. Modern dentistry techniques and improvements in anaesthesia ensure that the procedure is as comfortable as possible. Most patients report feeling only mild discomfort once the anaesthesia has worn off, which you can ease with over-the-counter medications. The pain you may have heard about is typically from the infection in the tooth, not the treatment itself.
If you experience dental anxiety, we can provide sedation during your root canal treatment to help you relax and ensure a quick and smooth procedure.
“How Long Does a Root Canal Take?”
The length of a root canal procedure varies depending on the tooth’s condition and complexity. Generally, it can take from 45 minutes to an hour. In most cases, two visits are required to allow the infection to fully clear before we can restore the tooth.
“What Happens During a Root Canal Procedure?”
- Diagnosis and Preparation: First, our endodontist will take an X-ray to assess the extent of the infection and determine the shape of the root canals.
- Anaesthesia: Next, they will administer local anaesthetic to numb the area around the affected tooth.
- Cleaning: Afterward, a small opening will be made in the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals. The infected or damaged pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected.
- Filling and Sealing: The cleaned canals are then filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, and the tooth is sealed with a temporary filling.
- Restoration: We often place a crown over the treated tooth at a second appointment to restore its strength and function.
“What Should I Expect After a Root Canal?”
After the procedure, you may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days, which we recommend managing with over-the-counter pain relievers. It’s important to follow our dentist’s aftercare instructions, which may include avoiding hard or chewy foods until the tooth is fully restored. Most patients can resume their normal activities the day after the procedure.
“How Successful is Root Canal Treatment?”
Root canal treatment has a high success rate, with many treated teeth lasting a lifetime. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are crucial to maintaining the health of the treated tooth and preventing future issues.
“Are There Alternatives to Root Canal Treatment?”
The primary alternative to a root canal is tooth extraction. However, we prefer to preserve your natural tooth with a root canal whenever possible, as it helps maintain your natural bite and jaw function. If a tooth is extracted, it must be replaced with an implant, bridge, or denture to prevent shifting of the surrounding teeth.
“How Can I Prevent the Need for a Root Canal?”
Good oral hygiene is critical to preventing the need for a root canal. This includes brushing twice daily, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Avoiding sugary foods and drinks and wearing a mouthguard during sports can also help protect your teeth from damage and decay.
Conclusion
We hope we’ve managed to put your concerns to rest. Our aim is to provide you with all the information you need to confidently attend your root canal appointment, knowing that you’re taking the best steps for your dental health.
If you are a nervous patient and think you could benefit from extra support, don’t hesitate to discuss adding sedation to your treatment plan with our team. Your comfort and peace of mind are important to us.
If you have any additional questions or concerns not addressed in this blog post, please get in touch with our dental practice in Bristol for personalised advice and information. We are open until late Monday through Thursday to answer your queries and provide the support you need.
Call us today at 0117 910 5929
Visit us at 1 Queen Square, Bristol, BS1 4JQ