A root canal is a procedure to remove bacteria from the infected root canal, prevent reinfection of the tooth and most importantly to save the natural tooth. If you are preparing for an upcoming root canal and would like to know more about the procedure and how to prepare for it, read on…
Why you need a Root Canal
An infection at the center of the tooth known as the root canal caused by bacteria that has invaded the tooth and is causing a lot of pain is the main reason people get a root canal. This infections can happen as an effect of:
- Tooth decay
- Leaky fillings
- Damage to teeth as a result of trauma, from accidents such as a fall or biting on hard food
Here are symptoms to look for if you are concern of an infection:
- Lingering pain when eating or drinking hot or cold food and drink
- Recurring/Perpetual pain when biting or chewing
- Pimples on the gums
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- A loose tooth
- Swelling of the gum near the affected tooth
- Pus oozing from the affected tooth
- Facial swelling
- The tooth becoming a darker colour/ Deep decay
Root Canal Procedure
A root canal procedure used to be a very painful procedure in the past, and is usually feared of. But today, with anesthetic a root canal treatment is not painful at all during the procedure and can save a tooth that might otherwise have to be removed completely. However, a root canal is generally a bit sore or numb after the procedure, and can even cause mild discomfort for a few days.
Most root canals take an hour or less to complete. Before every root canal, your dentist will apply a local anesthetic as a pain-relieving measure and to ensure your comfort during the procedure. During the root canal procedure you shouldn’t be feeling any pain, but still there will be a feeling of pushing or pressure during the procedure. Your dentist will drill away the infected area and after the bacteria have been removed, the root canal is filled and the tooth sealed with a filling or crown. If taken care of properly a root canal can last up to 10 years.
Preparation for a Root Canal
There is not much to prepare for before a root canal and nothing to worry about as a root canal treatment is very common nowadays. Here are some tips and info to help prepare for the upcoming procedure:
- You can eat as usual before a root canal treatment, and most endodontists may even allow patients to eat up to an hour before a procedure.
- A root canal procedure takes about an hour to complete.
- You might need someone to drive you home while you wait for the anesthetic to wear off.
- It takes 2-4 hours for the anesthetic to wear off.
- You can eat once the anesthetic has worn off.
- Request for sedative options to help you relax if you’re really nervous about your treatment.
- Take a day off to relax after the procedure, if you are able to.
If you are in Hamden and you are looking to do a root canal treatment.. At Parkway Dental we have trained and highly experienced professionals that can provide you with the proper dental care you and your loved ones need. Give us a call at (203) 408-2248 to book an appointment.