How To Find Out If You Need A Root Canal (Continued)
If you have not visited the dentist in a while, watch for the warning signs of root canals listed in Part 1. If you are experiencing extreme pain or sensitivity in your mouth, it would be wise to see your dentist regardless of the result. Even if you do not need a root canal, your dentist will show you what sort of treatments you need to get your mouth to feel and function like normal again.
What To Expect During Your Root Canal
A root canal is performed by an endodontist, usually over the course of several appointments. Your first appointment will primarily act as a consultation, preparing you for what to expect in a root canal and going over the different options you have for crowns, finances, extractions, etc.
In your second appointment, your endodontist will numb your teeth and place a rubber dam over the area, protecting the tooth from saliva. Then he will make an access opening at the top of the tooth to insert root canal files. After that, he will remove the pump, bacteria, and nerve tissue from the tooth. If you have any remaining decay, he will use special tools to get that out. The dentist or a dental hygienist will clean out your tooth once the decay has been removed, and then you will get a temporary filling.
About a week after your cleanout appointment, you will come back into the office for a more permanent filling. The endodontist will fill the inside of the tooth with special materials to seal the cavity. Then he will insert a filling to cover the opening on the tooth. You will need a crown or cap for each tooth with a root canal, which your dentist will insert during this appointment.
What To Expect After Your Root Canal
After your root canal, you may experience some sensitivity to temperatures. This will go away after the inflammation dies down. Your endodontist will go over your aftercare instructions with you during each appointment, as this will vary in between sessions. Follow the instructions to ensure the best results from your root canal. Otherwise, you may have to have your teeth retreated if infection reoccurs.
Keep up with your dental visits and maintain proper oral hygiene practices after your root canal, and you will be able to enjoy your new tooth well into the future.
