subject: Root Canals Clear Out Infected Material And Save Your Tooth From Extraction [print this page] There is a stigma associated with root canal procedures that they are incredibly painful and an unpleasant experience. Thanks to modern dental techniques and medicine, this is an inaccurate and unfair portrayal. Most people only report the same amount of pain as in a normal filling procedure. In reality, a root canal procedure is extremely important for you to avoid having to get your tooth extracted. When a tooth is severely decayed, the inner pulp material of the tooth can be damaged. A root canal procedure removes all of the damaged material on the inside of a tooth and ensures that the tooth will not have to be extracted. If you are experiencing tooth pain and think you may need a root canal procedure, don't hesitate to visit your Orlando dentist to receive treatment.
The Process Of Getting A Root Canal Procedure
The first thing your dentist will do once you have come in to his or her office is take an X-ray of your tooth to look at the infection and see if there is any damage to the surrounding bone. Next, he or she will fully anesthetize your tooth and drill an access hole into the center of your tooth. Your dentist will then remove all of the pulp from the inside of your tooth by using root canal files. Along with this, all of the bacteria, decayed nerve tissues and related debris will also be removed. Water or a chemical are also used to flush out all of the remaining material. When all of the infected material is removed, your tooth will need to be sealed. Your dentist will use a sealer paste and rubber compound to fill the interior of your tooth. Filling the tooth will ensure that no infections will threaten the tooth again. After this is complete, your dentist will then use a filling to fill in the access hole. Generally, the last step in the process consists of your dentist creating a crown to cover up the tooth. Because root canals are usually required to fix teeth that have been extremely decayed, often a crown is needed to stabilize the tooth and restore its full function. This process includes taking an impression of the tooth, waiting for the crown to be created at a dental lab and then installing it. Once the crown is permanently cemented to your tooth, the process will be complete and you will be free to leave the office and start fully enjoying your healthy new smile.
What To Expect After A Root Canal
After the process is complete, it is not uncommon to experience some slight discomfort due to natural tissue inflammation from the procedure. This can usually be treated with an over the counter medication like ibuprofen or naproxen. To take care of your restored tooth and avoid infection in the future, you simply need to make sure you are brushing and flossing every day. The success rate for root canal procedures is more than 95 percent. The main reason for complications after a root canal procedure is an undetected crack in the tooth or a defective or inadequate dental restoration, although this is rare.
To learn more about root canal procedures or to schedule an appointment, contact your Orlando dentist today.
