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The Basics of a Root Canal



Root canals have repeatedly been subjected to the misconception of being a highly painful process. A root canal in Livonia has the goal to relieve pain and to save a tooth that is infected and through new techniques and technology, it has evolved into a painless procedure. 

What is a Root Canal?

When a tooth has become infected due to any traumatic accident and the infection has reached the pulp of the tooth it can cause severe pain. A root canal near you is performed to clean out the infection that is in the canals of the tooth to preserve it and save it from having to be extracted in the future. Advantages of a root canal include normal biting force and sensation, efficient chewing, protecting other teeth from excessive wear or strain, and keeping the natural appearance of your tooth.

Signs indicating you might need a root canal:

  • You experience extreme pain when chewing or applying pressure
  • Nearby gums that are swollen or tender
  • You have a chipped or cracked tooth
  • Experience prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold matters even when the sensation has been removed
  • Darkening of the gums or deep decay
  • Pimples on the gums
  • Your tooth is discolored
If you experience any of the signs listed above promptly contact a dentist near you to determine if a root canal is best for your situation.

Root Canal Procedure

First, your dentist will take an X-ray of the tooth requiring the root canal before they numb the tooth and the surrounding gums so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. The X-ray allows your dentist to know how infected your tooth is before beginning the root canal.

Next, using small tools your dentist will make an opening at the top of your tooth to access the damaged pulp in the root canal of your tooth. Using a small file, they will clear away the damaged pulp from inside your tooth by cleaning and creating more space in the root canal. After removing the pulp your dentist will use water to wash out any pulp that was left behind and use an antimicrobial solution to kill any bacteria left in your tooth to reduce the risk of future infection.

After the inside of your tooth has been cleaned and dried your dentist will then fill and seal the canal of your tooth before sealing your tooth with a temporary or permanent filling. If they have used a temporary filling you will have to schedule a follow-up appointment for a tooth restoration such as a filling, crown, dentures, bridges, or an implant. The restoration chosen depends on how strong the part of your tooth is that remains after a root canal. If your tooth doesn’t have a sufficient structure for the restoration a post may be placed inside your tooth to support the restoration.

After the Procedure

After a root canal, you need to take care of your teeth and gums through brushing and flossing as normal to keep your mouth clean. You might experience some tenderness in the tooth for the first week or two. Your dentist will recommend that you stick to a soft food diet for the first two or three days after the procedure. Foods such as smoothies, yogurt, pudding, oatmeal, or mashed potatoes are recommended to eat while you should avoid anything sticky, hard, and crunchy.

If you are experiencing swelling or persistent pain, you will need to visit a dental clinic in Livonia promptly to get your tooth examined again. Persistent pain and swollen gums after a root canal can signal something else that is causing you pain and sensitivity.

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