Having to deal with a chronic toothache can be stressful for any individual. In most cases, chronic toothache results from a diseased or infected pulp. The pulp is the innermost layer of your tooth and is among the most sensitive areas in the body. It is made up of nerve endings and blood vessels. An infection can develop in the pulp due to dental problems such as loose fillings, a deep cavity, and a cracked tooth as they allow bacteria to penetrate the pulp region. Fortunately, root canal treatment in New York can help minimize the pain without the need for tooth extraction.
What Is Root Canal Treatment?
This endodontic procedure is used to repair a badly decayed or infected tooth by removing the diseased pulp and filling the cavity with a dental composite. Most people are afraid of undergoing this treatment due to the assumption that the process is painful. However, the pain is not a result of root canal treatment but the infected pulp, which the procedure seeks to eliminate. Dentists recommend root canal treatment in place of tooth extraction. The following symptoms indicate that root canal treatment may be an option for you:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Chronic toothache
- Swollen gums
- Pain when chewing
How Can I Prepare for Root Canal Treatment?
Like any other treatment, initial consultation with your dentist is the first step. A discussion with your specialist will help you understand what the process entails and the downsides of the treatment. Although root canal treatment is generally a safe procedure, preparation is necessary to ensure the treatment and recovery are as comfortable as possible. During a consultation, you may ask your dentist any questions about the treatment to clear any doubts that you may have. To get ready for treatment, your specialist may send you home with several guidelines that include:
- Do not consume alcohol or any tobacco products at least 24 hours before treatment as they may react with local anesthesia.
- Eat before treatment since your mouth will feel numb after the procedure, making it difficult to chew food.
- Ensure you get enough sleep the night before treatment to facilitate comfortable recovery.
- Take anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen to minimize any swelling probe to occur after treatment.
What to Expect During Root Canal Treatment
- Preparation
Starting the process entails numbing the treatment area with local anesthesia to relax during the process. Next, the dentist fits a dental dam in your mouth to cover the rest of the teeth while leaving the infected one. The barrier also keeps your mouth dry from saliva during the procedure.
- Cleaning the canals
Here, the dentist makes small incisions on your tooth’s surface and uses tiny files to remove the infected and dead pulp from the root canals. Using an irrigation solution, your specialist cleans the hollow spaces, ensuring no diseased pulp is left.
- Filling
The filling is the final step after cleaning and shaping the root canals. Here, your dentists will fill the channels using gutta-percha, rubber-like material, and use adhesive cement to seal the canals.
Most specialists recommend using dental restorations such as crowns to facilitate stability and restore a tooth’s full function. For further inquiries about root canal treatment, consult with your specialist at Charles M. Marks, DDS & Dental Associates.