Are you anxious about an upcoming root canal? Understanding the process can help ease your worries and make you feel more comfortable in the patient chair.
A root canal is a common dental procedure that removes inflamed or infected pulp inside the tooth. It is performed to eliminate bacteria, prevent reinfection, and save your natural tooth. Typically, a root canal takes around 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the severity of your individual case.
At Markham Dental Smiles, we want to make sure you are informed before you go into your root canal. We break down what root canals are, how long they typically take, and what you can do to prevent their reoccurrence.
Understanding Root Canals
Root canals are common dental procedures that remove infected or damaged tissues inside a tooth. Once removed, the inside (pulp) is cleaned, disinfected, filled, and sealed. Root canals are designed to help save natural teeth by eliminating the existing bacteria and preventing reinfection.
Root canals are beneficial in that they alleviate the pain associated with abscessed, infected, or damaged teeth. Root canals can become necessary when the pulp is inflamed or infected as a result of:
- A deep cavity
- Tooth fracture
- A traumatic injury
- Gum disease
Saving a tooth with a root canal helps maintain your natural smile. Additionally, avoiding a tooth extraction can help reduce the need for implants or dentures in the future.
How Long Do Root Canals Take?
The duration of a root canal depends on various factors, including the complexity of the case and the tooth’s location. Generally, the procedure lasts about 30 to 90 minutes.
A dentist may require one or two appointments to complete the treatment. Single-rooted teeth like incisors usually take less time, while multi-rooted teeth like molars might need more attention.
It’s always a good idea to discuss the expected duration with your dentist, as they can provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific situation.
How Painful Is a Root Canal?
While root canals have a reputation for being painful, modern dental technologies and techniques have made the procedure relatively comfortable.
Most patients describe experiencing only mild discomfort during a root canal. Dentists use local anesthesia to numb the affected area so that patients feel little to no pain. The sensation is often comparable to getting a routine filling.
Managing pain after the procedure is also straightforward. Over-the-counter pain relievers and adhering to aftercare instructions can help minimize discomfort.
Eating & Drinking After a Root Canal
It’s generally advised to avoid eating or drinking until the numbness from the anesthesia wears off, which could take a few hours. Once the numbness begins to fade, you can start eating soft foods. This helps prevent placing undue pressure on the treated tooth.
Tooth sensitivity is common for a short period of time after the treatment, so you should also avoid extremely hot or extremely cold foods.
Once your teeth and gums become less sore, you can gradually return to a normal diet. If your dentist placed a temporary crown over the treated tooth, you avoid hot, cold, sticky, and hard foods until your permanent crown is placed.
Can I Drive After a Root Canal?
Driving is usually permissible after a root canal if only local anesthesia is used. However, if sedation was part of your procedure, arrange for someone to drive you home due to lingering drowsiness.
Responsible post-procedure care ensures a swift recovery and helps maintain the results of your root canal treatment. Listen to your dentist’s instructions and make sure to follow their specifications to ensure the best recovery.
Root Canal vs. Extraction: What Is Better?
When faced with severe tooth decay or damage, you might contemplate between a root canal and a tooth extraction.
A root canal is designed to preserve the natural tooth, which helps maintain proper jaw alignment and prevents bone loss. Additionally, retaining your natural tooth means fewer long-term expenses on replacements like implants or bridges.
However, extractions are sometimes necessary if the tooth is damaged beyond repair. Your dentist may recommend extraction to treat severe tooth decay or a severely fractured tooth. Extractions usually involve more extensive follow-up treatments and costs.
Consulting with your dentist is crucial when deciding between these options. They can assess your situation and recommend the most suitable course of action for your dental health.
Can You Get a Crown After a Root Canal?
Following a root canal, a crown is often recommended to protect and strengthen the treated tooth. Crowns act as a shield, preventing further damage and restoring the tooth’s function and appearance.
While not all root canals require crowns, they are commonly used on molars and premolars due to the high levels of chewing pressure these teeth endure. Crowns are less frequently needed for front teeth unless there are significant damages or aesthetic concerns.
How Urgent Is a Root Canal?
Delaying a root canal can exacerbate the infection, leading to more pain and potentially spreading bacteria to surrounding areas.
Addressing the issue promptly reduces the risk of severe infection, tooth loss, and even jawbone inflammation. Your dentist can help assess the situation and determine if immediate intervention is necessary to protect your oral health.
How to Prepare for a Root Canal
Proper preparation can alleviate anxiety and ensure a smooth experience. Before your root canal, follow your dentist’s recommendations and consider these helpful tips:
- Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco: These can interfere with anesthesia and hinder recovery, so steer clear of them at least 24 hours before the procedure.
- Get a Good Night’s Sleep: Rest well the night before your appointment to ensure you’re in optimal condition for the procedure.
- Eat a Light Meal: Have a light meal a few hours before your appointment, especially if you won’t be eating immediately afterward.
Arriving well-prepared sets the foundation for a positive experience and supports effective recovery.
How to Relax Before a Root Canal
Feeling anxious about a root canal is entirely normal, but there are strategies to help calm your nerves. Here are some ways to relax before your procedure:
- Breathing Exercises: Practice deep breathing techniques to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
- Guided Imagery: Visualize a calming place or scene to distract your mind and alleviate anxiety.
- Talk to Your Dentist: Discuss your fears with your dentist, who can provide reassurance and explain what to expect.
By employing these relaxation techniques, you set yourself up for a smoother and more comfortable experience.
How Markham Dental Smile Can Help
Navigating a root canal procedure becomes easier with knowledge and preparation. From understanding the process to managing post-procedure care, being informed empowers you to make confident decisions about your dental health.
If you have more questions or need guidance, contact our team at Markham Dental Smiles. We can walk you through what to expect before, during, and after your root canal.
