November 24, 2015

What to Expect from a Dental Root Canal Procedure

Dental Health • 2 min read

General & Cosmetic Dentist

So you just found out you need a root canal?

Before you start breaking out into a sweat, it’s important to know that most of the pain people associate with root canals comes from the infection before the actual procedure. The root canal itself is a relatively pain-free dental procedure performed when the nerve of the tooth has become infected. Additionally, root canals are highly effective, with a 95% success rate.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Some common signs that indicate a root canal may be necessary include:

A severe toothache, especially when applying pressure to the tooth.
Pain after consuming hot or cold foods that linger.
Darkening or discoloration of a tooth.
Swelling and tenderness in the gums near the affected tooth.

The Root Canal Procedure

Your root canal procedure usually takes place over the course of two office visits with our dental experts. The process typically lasts about two hours per visit. During the procedure, your dentist will take X-rays and administer local anesthesia to ensure your comfort.

A small opening is made in the tooth, allowing the dentist to remove decay, bacteria, and infected pulp. Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it will be sealed either on the same day or at the next appointment. If sealing is delayed, a temporary filling will be placed in the tooth. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat any infection present.

Recovery and Aftercare

Once the filling is placed, one of our dentists will apply a crown or other restorative piece to protect the tooth. For a few days after the procedure, you may experience some pressure and sensitivity. This is common and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

After your root canal, you can resume your general oral health routine, including brushing, flossing, and scheduling regular dental check-ups.

Schedule an Appointment

If you have been dealing with tooth pain and suspect that you may need a root canal, contact us to be seen by our dental experts at Valley Dental Care.