If a Gilbert dentist has recommended root canal treatment, don’t worry; millions of teeth are saved using an endodontic treatment. Root canal treatment is a restorative or general dentistry procedure done to save and repair damaged teeth. Some people are afraid of root canal therapy because of the common theory that it is painful. But, that shouldn’t be the case. Our dentist will take the necessary measure to ensure your endodontic treatment in Gilbert, AZ, is pain-free.
Although they are used interchangeably, the root canal refers to the pulp cavity. Our teeth have three layers; the enamel, the dentin, and the pulp chamber. Inside the pulp chamber, there are nerves and blood vessels that support the teeth during the growth stage. While the teeth do not need the pulp cavity after they attain maturity, it still plays a vital role in maintaining health. Any damage to the pulp cavity can cause pain and infection.
Bacteria can spread to the pulp chamber and cause an infection. This infection affects the nerves and causes inflammation and abscess. Without treatment, it can spread to the rest of the tissues and also the bloodstream causing widespread inflammation. Removing the infection is, therefore, paramount to your oral health.
A root canal therapy is done to remove the infected pulp and stop the spread of the infection as well as save the teeth.
The dentist will begin the procedure by doing a free dental exam to check the condition of the teeth and gums. A radiograph and x-ray may be done to examine your jaw bone and the extent of the infection. Next, the following steps are done:
You may experience tooth sensitivity and pain as the anesthesia begins to wear out. Pain is also a common side effect after the procedure. The pain will last for a couple of days, but the dentist will prescribe medication to ease the pain and prevent infection.
After the procedure, the teeth and gum will be sensitive and painful. What you do during the recovery period will determine how long it takes to recover. Here are a few tips that can help manage the pain:
Following your procedure, eat soft foods to give your gums a rest. Also, avoid eating hard, chewy, spicy, and overly hot or cold foods that may irritate the gums.
The dentist will prescribe pain medications and antibiotics to ease the discomfort. Follow the given instructions to hasten the recovery process. Avoid taking any medication that is not recommended by the dentist.
Resting after the procedure will give your gums a chance to heal. Do not engage in any strenuous activity in the first 24 hours after the root canal therapy. Also, elevate the head when sleeping to ease the pain.
Post root canal pain will clear after some time. There may be slight swelling, but this too reduces with time. However, if you still have swollen gums a few days after the procedure or severe pain, visit the dentist for an assessment.
Visit Coral Pointe Dental & Orthodontics if you are experiencing lingering sensitivity, pain when you chew and bite, or darkening gums. These symptoms are a sign of a pulp infection.
