When Is a Root Canal Really Necessary & What To Do To Get Ready?
Back in the day, people used to be terrified by hearing the term “root canal.” However, the treatment is now almost painless. The thing is that not everybody needs a root canal—there are some specific signs for it.
Thank many technological advancements today, you can resume your daily activities the same day you receive the procedure.
A Washington Heights dentist will explain below the most common signs regarding root canals and what you can do to get ready for this procedure.
What Exactly Is A Root Canal?
A root canal is also referred to as an endodontic procedure. Root canals save teeth that are badly decaying, damaged, or diseased from extraction. When performing a root canal, your endodontist will reach your tooth’s pulp (inside) after numbing the entire region around it.
Each tooth’s pulp contains blood arteries, connective tissues, and nerves. Your endodontist will remove the pulp and clean out any infection in the tooth’s canals. After that, the canals are sealed using a safe and biocompatible substance.
You’ll eventually need to revisit your regular dentist once your root canal is finished to have a crown, a permanent filling, or keep updated on your crown maintenance.
Note that you technically no longer require the pulp of your tooth once you have fully developed adult teeth. Root canals allow the infected pulp to be removed, allowing you to maintain your tooth.
How To Know If You Need A Root Canal
The only way to be sure you need a root canal is to visit a reliable Washington Heights dentist who can asses the issue.
If your dentist thinks you need a root canal, you will most likely be sent to an experienced endodontist for the treatment. However, you may assume that you will require a root canal if you suffer any of the following frequent symptoms:
Your Chewing Causes You Pain
Your toothache should be treated as soon as possible. Other conditions, such as a fractured tooth or gum disease, might cause pain. However, sudden development of pain, especially in response to temperature or chewing, may indicate an infection in the pulp of your tooth, indicating the need for a root canal.
You Have Dark, Swollen, Or Sensitive Gums
If your gums become darker, puffy, or suddenly very sensitive, consult a dentist as soon as possible. Several disorders can produce inflamed, bleeding, or swollen gums.
One possibility is that you have a dental infection. Your dentist will identify the issue and suggest the best course of action, which may entail referring you to an endodontist for root canal therapy.
You Have A Broken Tooth
Be aware of any broken tooth! If a dental trauma causes it, you should seek treatment immediately. If you don’t treat the broken tooth with a Washington Heights dentist on time, your tooth could get infecting, leading to a root canal or other therapies.
Make an appointment with your dentist or endodontist as soon as possible if you have a cracked tooth.
Your Teeth Are Delicate To Hot Or Cold Foods
A sudden increase in your sensitivity to hot or cold meals may be a sign of pulp infection, irritation, or inflammation. If you suddenly develop dental sensitivity, let your dentist know.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
How Painful Are Root Canals?
A root canal isn’t more painful than a dental operation like getting a filling or having a wisdom tooth extracted because patients receive anesthesia. Nonetheless, a root canal typically leaves the tooth a little uncomfortable or numb following the treatment and may even cause some minor discomfort for a few days.
Can I Return To My Daily Activities Like Work Or School?
Although you will most likely be numb for 2-4 hours after the treatment, most patients can return to school or work immediately. We suggest waiting to eat until the numbness has subsided.
When Should I Contact A Dentist?
Whether you need a root canal or just a cleaning, you should contact your Washington Height dentist whenever possible to receive proper treatment. If you feel any discomfort with your teeth, you must contact the dentist right away. You should also schedule a visit at least once a year.
Top-Rated Dentists In Washington Heights
If you need immediate care for your teeth, contact Esthetix Dental Spa today! We’ll make sure to give you the proper treatment so you can keep your smile healthy and shiny. Schedule an appointment with us today!
Esthetix Dentist, NYC’s Dental Implant & Cosmetic Specialist
285 Fort Washington Ave,
New York, NY 10032
Phone: (212) 795-9675
Website: http://esthetixdentalspa.com/