Root Canal
A root canal is a dental procedure used to save a tooth that has been badly damaged or infected. It involves the removal of infected or inflamed pulp from within the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the area, and then sealing it to ensure no further infection develops.
How Do I Know If I Need a Root Canal Treatment?
You may need a root canal in case you experience the following:
- Severe toothache or pain, mainly when chewing or applying pressure.
- Sensitivity to hot or cold for a long time, even after the source is removed
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums around the affected tooth.
- Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
- A pimple that develops and bursts repeatedly on the gum, could be a sign of an abscess.
What Are the Risks or Possible Complications with Root Canal Treatments?
Though the success rate of root canal treatments is high, possible complications could be:
- Infection of the tooth is not sealed properly.
- Tooth fracture if not protected with a crown.
- Persistent pain or inflammation in rare cases.
At Enhance Dental, we take every precaution possible to minimize these risks and ensure successful outcomes.
Is Root Canal Treatment Painful?
No, it is not, thanks to modern root canal treatment, where the procedures are painless. We anesthetize the area with local anesthesia to make the procedure painless. You may feel a little tender afterward, which over-the-counter medication usually can take care of.
How Much Time Does the Root Canal Procedure Take?
A root canal procedure’s length will take approximately about 60-90 minutes. It might take some visits for the more challenging cases.
What Is Its Recovery Period?
Most patients can recover in a couple of days, with very little discomfort.
Steps to Follow After a Root Canal Treatment
- Do not chew on the treated tooth until a final crown is in place.
- Practice excellent oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing.
- Follow up on dental appointments for crown placement and monitoring.
- Take any prescription medications as indicated.
Alternatives include
- Tooth Extraction: The extraction of the tooth and its replacement with a dental implant or bridge may be required if the tooth is irreparable.Â
- Pulp Capping: In some cases where the pulp damage is superficial, this can sometimes save the tooth by not doing a full root canal.
We recommend these alternatives based on the extent of the damage and overall oral health.
Tooth Extraction
Pulp Capping
At Enhance Dental Clinic in High Wycombe,
We are committed to providing exceptional care to ensure your oral health remains a top priority. For consultations or more information about root canal treatments, please reach out to us today!