Endodontic Treatment: What You Need to Know Before Getting It

Endodontic Treatment: What You Need to Know Before Getting It

August 1, 2021

Several treatments like root canal therapy can help eliminate decay and ease pain and discomfort. For people with dental phobia, the mere mention of root canal treatment can be crippling. However, the treatment is recommended for people with extensive decay. But, the primary benefit of getting root canal therapy in Plano, TX, is that it saves your teeth from extraction.

What is Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy is an endodontic treatment that involves removing infected pulp. Our teeth have three parts—the enamel, dentin, and the inner core known as the pulp cavity. The pulp chamber houses nerves and blood vessels that nourish the teeth during the growth stage. While the chamber loses this function at some point, it is still important. Any injury or infection to the pulp cavity can cause pain and damage to the teeth.

The cavity can get damaged because of infection and repeated dental procedures. A damaged root canal can cause persistent pain, lingering tooth sensitivity, tooth discoloration, swollen gums, and loose teeth.

A root canal therapy in Plano, TX, can stop the spread of the infection and save the teeth from decay.

What Happens When You Don’t Get Endodontic Treatment?

It is crucial to visit an endodontist near you for treatment when you notice the symptoms mentioned above. Not getting the treatment will cause the infection to spread to the surrounding tissues affecting the teeth.

When the infection damages the tooth structure, you may need an extraction. Tooth extraction is the removal of your permanent teeth. These leave spaces between the gums, which can affect your appearance and dental structure. Furthermore, you may need other restorative treatments to replace the teeth.

How is the Root Canal Therapy Done?

The endodontic treatment at least two dental visits; the first one involves removing the root canal, and the second visit is for fixing the dental crowns.

The dentist near you will begin the treatment by doing a comprehensive dental assessment to check the extent of the decay. The following steps are done:

  • The affected teeth are cleaned and separated with a protective sheet to keep them dry.
  • The endodontist will open the teeth to access the pulp cavity and clean it. The root cavity is reshaped in preparation for the filling.
  • A biocompatible material—gutta-percha—is used to fill the cavity. A special adhesive cement is used to seal the cavity, and a temporary filling is used to cover the area.
  • On your second dental visit, the dentist will remove the temporary filling and fix the dental crown to restore the strength and function of the teeth.

Is the Root Canal Procedure Painful?

No. The dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the gums and ease discomfort. The dentist may use dental sedation in people with dental phobia to keep them calm during the procedure.

What Can You Expect After the Procedure?

While you will not feel pain during the procedure, you will feel pain as the anesthesia begins to wear out. There may also be swelling, gum soreness, sensitivity, and some people may experience uneven bite.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

Most people recover in a few days with the use of pain medication. You can expect the swelling, soreness, and pain to clear out in a day or two. However, healing may take a week or two if you experience complications like severe pain, uneven bite, or allergic reaction to the medication.

What Can You Do After the Procedure?

What you do after the root canal procedure will influence how long it takes to recover. It is important to pay attention to the treated area and avoid activities that may damage the gums. Eat soft foods, relax and avoid strenuous activities 24 hours after the procedure. Gently clean the teeth and avoid spitting forcefully. Also, avoid smoking because it can slow gum healing and increase the chances of the root canal procedure failing.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Arte Dental in Plano for more information about root canal therapy and what you can expect. Call us now to schedule an appointment with our dentist near you. Our expert endodontist also cater to patients living in Normandy Estates, Legacy Ranch, Stonebriar Country Club Estates, The Harvard, Fairways of Ridgeview, Oakwood Glen, Hillcrest Crossing, Richwoods, The Trails, and in surrounding communities.

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