What are Root Canals?

Root canals are small canals inside your teeth that if not given proper care, could become infected. When the canals get infected, so does the pulp that is found within the tooth. The most obvious sign of a root canal is pain in the tooth while chewing or biting down, sensitivity to hot and cold foods, and swelling in the face. Your dentist will clean the infected area, fill the canal, and give you either a filling or a crown.

The two most common causes of root canals are untreated cavities (allowing bacteria to cause infections), or from an injury to the teeth or jaw which causes sensitivity to the area.

Many people are fearful of root canal procedures, because the word is often linked with pain. In actuality, the procedure is not half as bad as people imagine. People must remember that the procedure is not being done for cosmetic reasons; it is being done for their health. This being the case, there should be no reason for avoiding the procedure.

If untreated, the infection will continue to get worse over time, becoming more and more painful. In a worst case scenario, the tooth may even fall out completely. The actual procedure creates very little pain.

Before the procedure begins, the dentist will numb the area surrounding the tooth, so that the patient will not feel any pain. The tooth will then be drilled on the top or the back in order to remove the pulp. Once the majority of the pulp has been removed, the dentist will measure the canal to ensure that the entire thing is cleaned and filled in. Measuring is done either by x-rays or by electronic imaging. Once the canal has been adequately cleaned and filled, a crown is placed on the tooth. Crowns are more common than simple fillings since they are stronger. The patient will have to return for several visits to ensure that no further infections have developed.

Patients can expect a slight amount of tenderness for the first couple of days after the procedure. In more severe cases the pain may last slightly longer. Your dentist can suggest some medication choices to relieve soreness.

For more information on root canals, contact a dentist in your area.