At Valley Dental Health in Cockeysville, MD, we believe in helping our patients understand each dental procedure. One of the most common treatments we offer is the root canal, a procedure that treats infected teeth and helps save them from extraction. Here, we’ll explain how a root canal works, why you might need one, and what to expect before, during, and after the treatment.
Understanding Tooth Anatomy
To understand why a root canal is needed, it helps to know a bit about a tooth’s structure. Each tooth has several layers, with the outermost layer being the enamel, which is the hard surface that protects the inner parts. Just under the enamel is the dentin, a softer layer that holds some nerves.
The innermost part of the tooth is the pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. The pulp is essential while the tooth is still developing, but once fully grown, a tooth can function without it. When the pulp becomes infected, however, it can cause pain and lead to more serious issues without treatment.
When You Need a Root Canal
At Valley Dental Health, we perform root canals when the pulp inside the tooth gets infected or inflamed. This infection can happen for a few reasons. For instance, untreated cavities allow bacteria to reach the pulp, causing infection. A cracked or broken tooth can also expose the pulp to bacteria, leading to pain and other symptoms.
Common signs that you might need a root canal include severe tooth pain, ongoing sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling in the gums around the affected tooth, or a noticeable change in tooth color.
Steps of the Root Canal Procedure
Our team at Valley Dental Health makes every effort to ensure a comfortable and smooth experience during a root canal. Here’s a closer look at each step of the process:
- Initial Examination and X-ray: The first step involves examining the tooth and taking an X-ray to see how far the infection has spread. This helps us confirm the need for a root canal and guides us in planning the treatment.
- Numbing the Area: Once we confirm the need for a root canal, we’ll numb the area around the affected tooth with local anesthesia. This makes sure you don’t feel pain during the procedure, helping you stay relaxed.
- Accessing the Pulp: After the area is numb, we create a small opening in the top of the tooth to reach the infected pulp. Using small tools, we carefully remove the infected pulp from the root canals, making sure to clear out any bacteria and infected tissue. This step is crucial to prevent the infection from spreading.
- Cleaning and Shaping the Canal: With the infected pulp removed, we clean and shape the empty canals to get them ready for filling. This step ensures that no bacteria or damaged tissue is left behind, helping prevent future infections.
- Filling the Canal: After cleaning, we fill the canal with a biocompatible material that seals the inside of the tooth. This keeps bacteria out and ensures the tooth stays strong.
- Placing a Filling or Crown: Finally, we place a temporary or permanent filling over the opening to protect the tooth. In most cases, we place a crown to give the tooth extra support and restore its shape. A crown helps the treated tooth function like a regular tooth, allowing you to chew and smile comfortably.
Recovery and Aftercare
Taking care of the treated tooth after the root canal is essential for a smooth recovery. Our team at Valley Dental Health will give you specific aftercare instructions to help with healing. Right after the procedure, avoid chewing with the treated tooth until your permanent filling or crown is in place, as this prevents any accidental damage.
Most patients manage any mild discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers, though any lingering pain should improve within a few days. If pain persists or gets worse, it’s important to let us know so we can check the area and provide additional help if needed.
Follow-Up and Long-Term Care
After your root canal, we’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to make sure everything is healing well. During this check-up, we’ll look for any signs of infection and ensure the final filling or crown fits comfortably. With good oral care, the treated tooth can stay healthy for many years. Brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups are important for keeping your teeth strong and preventing future problems.
Schedule A Dental Exam Today
Learning about the root canal process can help ease any concerns you may have. At Valley Dental Health, we aim to keep our patients informed and comfortable at each step, from the first exam to follow-up care.
If you’re experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity, or any other signs that may mean you need a root canal, reach out to us. Our experienced team is here to help you restore your smile and keep your teeth healthy. Schedule an appointment online with Valley Dental Health today to learn how we can help.