Baker Family Dental

What To Expect If You Need A Root Canal

Root canals can save badly infected teeth, removing the infection and averting tooth loss or extraction. During this procedure, your family dentist in Mesa, AZ cleans out the fleshy canal that houses the root of the tooth where nerves and blood vessels attach to the tooth. Today, advances in anesthetics and dental technology have made this once-feared procedure into a nearly pain-free dental experience.

During The Root Canal Procedure

During the root canal procedure, you will receive local anesthesia and will likely have the option of further sedation. After the area is sufficiently numbed, a small access hole will be drilled into the infected tooth. The dentist will then remove all of the decayed tissue, the infected nerve, and any bacteria. The entire root canal is thoroughly cleansed and rinsed out. Then, the canal will be refilled and the tooth sealed; depending on the extent of your procedure, your dentist may opt to do this at a second appointment, utilizing a temporary crown or filling until that time. Antibiotics may be administered to fully clear out any remaining infection. You may need another appointment for restorative work, such as crown placement. 

After The Procedure After the root canal procedure, you may experience some pain or tenderness due to inflammation, which is a normal response. Usually, people can return to their normal activities by the next day. If you have a temporary crown or filling, it can be helpful to avoid chewing near the affected tooth until the procedure is completely finished. This will help you avoid re-introducing bacteria into the root or dislodging the temporary filling. Be sure to call your dentist if you experience any severe pain or swelling following the procedure.

You can avoid needing a root canal by taking care of your teeth at home and by making regular visits to your dentist for teeth cleanings. To schedule a dental visit for the whole family in Gilbert or Mesa, AZ, call Baker Family Dental at (480) 719-3044 or contact us online.

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