Root canal is one of the dental procedures that are not very popular with people despite the fact that it is probably one of the most beneficial procedures especially for people who are experiencing excruciating pain in their teeth or gums. It is a dental procedure that entails the withdrawal of the soft matter within a tooth and is sometimes accompanied by a process of coating used to avoid subsequent problems.
Due to this, people who need a root canal may have some anxiety; nonetheless, understanding what a root canal is and when one is required will help erase such fears and enable proper decision making about attending to one’s dental needs. This is why in this article we will give you all the details you require to know so that you can be well informed and prepared in case you need a root canal done.
What Is RTC?
RCT (Root canal treatment) is a dental treatment carried out for a tooth that has become tooth infector or damage that has extended to the pulp. Pulp is present in the center of the tooth having nerves, blood vessels and connective tissues. An RTC is carried out where the pulp becomes infected or inflamed as a result of decay, trauma or some other cause. The function of the RCT is to extract the damaged tissue, clean the surface, apply a disinfecting agent then suture. This in turn assists in the restoration of the function of the tooth.
What Is the Purpose of a Root Canal
The aim of root canal is to restore a damaged tooth in addition to the fact that its removal may be required. RCT retains the tooth’s shape, strength, color and functionality because after removal of the infected pulp, the tooth is sealed. This procedure makes it possible for the tooth to continue discharging its function of chewing as well as maintaining proper positioning in the dental arc among other functions as may be required.
In addition, RTC also eliminates discomfort since infection, or significant harm to the pulp is terribly painful. Moreover, the procedure removes bacteria and decayed tissue and because of this it decreases the chance of infection of nearby teeth and tissues.
How To Know If You Need A Root Canal
There are several signs and symptoms that indicate that you need a root canal. You should know these symptoms to get timely treatment and prevent any complications. Here are some common signs that you may need an RTC:
- Swelling in the gums or face near a certain tooth
- Cracked or severely chipped teeth
- Bleeding from teeth when you bite hard or brush teeth
- Severe tooth decay that reaches the pulp
- A loose tooth with pain or swelling
- Discoloration of teeth over time represents pulp death
- A small pimple or bump on the gums near the affected tooth
- A continuous or severe toothache that worsens with chewing or biting
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages that stays long after the stimulus is removed
How To Avoid Root Canal Pain
It is also important that after a root canal there is no pain, therefore, you should consult a professional and experienced endodontist. Experience of your dentist or endodontist is an important factor that decides the efficiency of the whole process and the patient’s pain threshold.
As a first step your dentist will give you a local anesthetic to help you control the pain in the tooth and the surrounding gums. This will make you not feel pain during the procedure because of this numbing. It is important also to discuss with your dentist any pain that you feel during the process. It also allows them to fine-tune the administered anesthesia or add more medication if that is required.
In a line with post procedural advice, you should always listen to the dentist and follow the next steps of operative care. This usually involves following certain instructions given by the doctor such as, extremely important to take necessary medicines, avoid eating hard or sticky food and regular dental checkups. But over the counter medications including ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be taken to support any discomfort that might be experienced. A simple home remedy for the treatment of hydrocele is through use of cold compress on the swelling area because this lessens the pains as well as inflammation.
Types Of Root Canal
Root canal treatments vary based on the complexity of the tooth’s structure and the severity of the infection. Here are the main types of root canal procedures available:
Anterior Root Canal:
Anterior RTC is for the front of the tooth on the front teeth which usually have a simpler root canal system with one or two root canals. The procedure is relatively simpler and often involves fewer visits compared to more complex cases. The primary goal is to remove the infected pulp and seal the canal to restore the tooth.
Premolar Root Canal:
A premolar root canal is a particular dental procedure that is carried out in order to re-root a tooth that is located in the middle part of your mouth otherwise known as the premolar. Premolars are the teeth which are located between the sharp edge incisors and canines and the large molars. A premolar has one or two roots and this makes them to be moderate in terms of complexity of the procedure needed for their removal.
Molar Root Canal:
Molars have the most complex root canal systems with multiple canals and sometimes even extra branches. Treating molars often involves multiple visits to thoroughly clean and seal each canal. This type of root canal is generally more time consuming and may require additional imaging to ensure all infected tissue is removed.
Retreatment Root Canal:
Sometimes, more advanced measures may be required if a previous root canal was unsuccessful or if infection recurs then a retreatment may be required. The process involves the following: this entails the use of instruments for the removal of the old filling material then followed by canal cleaning and then refilling of canals. Retreatment, therefore, is usually complicated by factors such as scar tissues or alteration in the anatomy of the tooth.
What To Do After Root Canal
After a root canal you are required to take proper care of yourself. Initially you should only take soft foods and do not chew with the affected side of your mouth where the root canal was done for the initial 24 hours. Delicate foods such as yogurts, mashed potatoes, soups and ice cream should be preferred. Of course, do not eat hot and spicy foods at all, or else the irritation of the area will begin.
Make sure to brush your teeth for another two weeks at least twice a day and also floss but do not be harsh in the area that was done. Also to reduce the chances of getting an infection then rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash. Do not brush too vigorously as this will also cause more distress.
Last, you will have to attend checkup sessions with the dentist that will give a prognosis of how you are healing and if you require further treatment. If however you feel severe pain, your face is swollen for more than two days or there are signs of an infection then visit the dentist.
Is Crown Necessary After Root Canal
Crowns are made of different materials for instance porcelain and ceramics that will mimic the color and density of your teeth. When you are given RTC, it is suggested that a crown be placed on the treated tooth. Root canal, for example, requires the removal of the tooth’s nerve and blood supply and in return it can undermine the tooth. Therefore, if one does not get a crown, the tooth can end up becoming brittle and being susceptible to cracking.
Crown protect the tooth from the wear and tear, forces exerted when biting or chewing and other forms of trauma. This is the one which provides much-needed protection of the said tooth over time to prevent its degeneration. Furthermore crowns enhance the look of the tooth; this is in cases where the crown is conspicuous each time you are smiling or speaking.
Symptoms Of A Failed RTC
Let’s discuss what happens if your root canal fails. Sometimes a root canal can actually fail which in turn means another problem. According to the signs of a failed root canal, one of the main ones is pain that continues or returns in the treated tooth. This pain is often intense with rigorous pounding and is persistent.
You can also have pus or have an unpleasant taste in your mouth which may show that there is a continuous infection. Pus may be present around the tooth or at the gum line and the material may give out a foul taste due to the infection.
Note: If you have any of these symptoms, please consult your dentist right away. This problem should be solved in advance, during the early stages, in order to avoid further deterioration of the problem.
FAQs
What food to eat after root canal?
After getting an RTC eat soft foods that are easy to chew and won’t irritate the treated area. Good choices include yogurt, applesauce, soups, bread and mashed rice. Avoid hard, sticky and crunchy foods.
Do root canals hurt?
Yes, a general dentist can do a root canal but in cases that involve a lot of technicalities then one should seek services for an endodontist. Ensure you choose a doctor with further training in the procedure at hand which in this case is root canal treatments.
Can a normal dentist do root canal?
The process of root canal by itself is not dangerous and can cause no health issues when carried out correctly. Potential problems are very few and these includes development of infection or failure to remove total tooth nerves. Make sure to have a roper aftercare and failure to this ensure that you follow up with your dentist.
Do root canals cause health problems?
Root canals are safe and do not cause health problems when performed correctly. Complications are rare but can include infection or incomplete removal of tooth nerves. Have a roper aftercare and follow up with your dentist.