Root Canals

What are root canals?

A root canal is a very common dental procedure that treats infection. When the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected with bacteria due to an injury or an untreated cavity, it can cause painful symptoms. 

Root canal treatment removes the diseased pulp and restores your healthy tooth. Without root canal treatment, the infected pulp inside your tooth can cause oral decay or tooth loss.

How do root canals work?

At Lotus Dental, Dr. Anne numbs your tooth with a sedative using a needle. This can cause a brief pinching sensation. Once your tooth is numb, they place a small rubber sheet around your tooth that keeps it clean and dry during root canal treatment.

Using a small drill, Dr. Anne makes an opening in the top part of your affected tooth so they can access the pulp inside. Then she uses surgical tools to remove the infected pulp inside your tooth. Shemay use water to wash away any leftover pulp or a special solution to destroy bacteria and lessen the risk of more infection.

The next step involves filling the inside of your tooth with a rubber-like material. Lastly, Dr. Anne seals the opening in your tooth shut with a temporary filling.

Are root canals painful?

Contrary to popular belief, root canals are not painful. The pain you experience is from the infection inside your tooth that makes root canal treatment necessary. The procedure is done to relieve your pain and is essentially painless. The local anesthetic Dr. Anne uses during root canal treatment numbs the affected area.

What happens after a root canal?

The most important part of your post-root canal recovery is practicing good oral hygiene habits. Brushing and flossing regularly helps take care of your teeth and gums and keeps your recently treated tooth strong and healthy.

After root canal treatment, you need to schedule a follow-up visit at Lotus Dental to ensure that the infection is completely gone. During your regular ongoing visits, exams, and cleanings, your dentist will continue to monitor your treated tooth.

You may also need to be fitted with a crown at a follow-up appointment to protect the affected tooth. With care and attention, a tooth treated with a root canal can remain healthy and strong for your entire life.

If you need root canal treatment, call the office or request an appointment at Lotus Dental today.