How Can a Tooth Be Saved with a Root Canal?
Root canal treatment is done to repair and save the damaged or infected part of the tooth. The procedure includes the removal of the damaged area of the tooth (the pulp), its cleaning and disinfection and then its filling and sealing. Common causes of pulp involvement are fissured teeth, deep cavities, or repeated dental treatments on the tooth or trauma. The term "root canal" comes from the cleaning that is done in the channels inside the root of the tooth.
Decades ago, endodontic treatments were painful. With dental advances and local anesthetics, most people feel little or no pain during a root canal treatment nowadays.
Signs That You Need a Root Canal
The most common symptom that may indicate the need for root canal treatment is tooth pain, according to the American Association of Endodontists. The intensity of pain can vary from medium to severe. It can diminish or intensify throughout the day, or it can worsen only by biting with the tooth. Some patients have prolonged sensitivity to hot or liquid foods. Your gums may also be softened and swollen around the problem area.
First Steps of Root Canal Treatment
If you feel any of the symptoms mentioned above, contact your Santa Clarita dentist immediately. Explain the symptoms over the phone to a team member, who may recommend emergency care, depending on the severity of your symptoms. To relieve pain and decrease swelling, apply an ice pack to the outside of the jaw.
What to Expect from Root Canal Treatment?
If you think you need a root canal, get in touch with your Santa Clarita dentist. During your first visit, Dr. Aznavour will explain the steps to follow for your root canal treatment. These include:
- X-rays - if your Santa Clarita dentist suspects that you may need a root canal, he will first perform necessary x-rays to see where the cavities are located.
- Anesthesia - anesthesia is administered to the affected tooth. Contrary to popular belief, root canal treatment does not hurt more than a filling.
- Pulpectomy - an opening is made and the damaged dental pulp is removed.
- Pasting - the open roots (to remove the damaged pulp) are filled with a sort of gutta-percha material and sealed with cement.
What Care Should I Follow after a Root Canal Treatment?
A treated and restored tooth can last a lifetime if it is properly taken care of, and root canal treatments indeed have a high success rate in Santa Clarita.
Here are some ways to take care of your teeth after a root canal treatment:
- Practice good oral hygiene: Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. Taking proper care of your teeth can help you avoid future problems.
- Visit your Santa Clarita dentist regularly: Cleaning and examinations will be performed by your dentist and hygienists at Healthy Smiles Santa Clarita.
- Avoid chewing on hard foods: Chewing on hard foods such as ice can break your teeth and damage the root canals.
For more information on root canals, feel free to contact our dental practice in Santa Clarita by calling (661) 260-1220.
Location: 24242 Lyons Avenue Santa Clarita, CA 91321
(661) 260-1220