While a root canal is a fairly common procedure, many do not know what a root canal is. This may be due to the stigma and fear surrounding the procedure, which ironically can stem from not understanding what it is or how it works. However, by understanding the process it can greatly minimize the fear factor, so let’s get started.
What Creates the Need for a Root Canal?
A dentist typically recommends a root canal for patients that are found to have infected or inflamed pulp inside the tooth. The pulp is a soft tissue located inside the tooth underneath hard enamel that extends from the visible part of the tooth all the way to the root, which is located in the jawbone. The pulp is home to more tissue, nerves, and blood vessels that support the root of the tooth.
Many people do not realize they have infected tooth pulp when they visit the dentist. Instead, it can manifest itself in symptoms such as:
- Temperature sensitivity when eating and drinking particularly hot or cold foods
- Pain that occurs when eating
- Pressure related pain
- Tooth discoloration and/or drainage
- Tooth abscess
- Gums that are irritated, swollen, darkened, decaying, or have pimples
- Facial swelling
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Loose permanent tooth
If symptoms like these progress unaddressed, it can lead to dental health problems such as a serious infection that could spread to other teeth or even cause damage to the jawbone.
It is also possible, in some cases, for a root canal to be needed from simply genetics or problems with an existing filling.
While it may sound counterproductive to remove the pulp of a tooth which helps support the root, a mature tooth can continue to thrive without it via a root canal if it is sustained by the tissues around it.
Fortunately, by having a root canal done, the bacteria from the infected root can be eliminated which halts the infection, helps prevent reinfection, and ultimately saves the tooth from further related damage.
How a Root Canal Works
When a patient goes to the dentist experiencing one or more of the above symptoms that could signal a root canal being needed, the first step is generally for the dentist to physically examine the area and ask key questions about the symptoms the person is experiencing. This may also be followed up with a dental x-ray. Once the dentist determines that a root canal is needed, a dedicated appointment is made for the procedure.
When a patient arrives for a traditional root canal procedure, they should expect the dentist to do the following:
- Administer anesthesia to numb the affected area. While localized anesthesia is common practice, additional medications are not. It is important to let your dentist know if you require something to help you relax during the procedure.
- Protect the tooth from moisture with a small piece of rubber
- Drill a small hole into the crown of the tooth to access the pulp
- Remove tissues, blood vessels, and nerves in the tooth pulp
- Disinfect the root canal and pulp chamber
- Seal the tooth with a filling to keep harmful bacteria out
- Put a crown over the tooth to protect it
When a patient arrives for a laser-assisted root canal procedure, the process is somewhat similar with the exception of cleaning out the infected tooth pulp. In a traditional root canal, a syringe is used to irrigate and disinfect. In laser-assisted root canals, a highly precise laser uses both light and water to rid the affected area of bacteria contributing to infection. This is beneficial in that it:
- Is more precise
- Cauterizes as it works to decrease bleeding
- Eliminates harmful bacteria as it works
With less bleeding and discomfort, patients can require less downtime to recover from the laser-assisted root canal than that of a more traditional root canal procedure.
It is worth noting that if a patient receiving a root canal requests a crown that is designed to match the same shade as the rest of their teeth, step seven may include a temporary and permanent crown. The temporary crown will be put in place until the customized crown arrives and can be put in its place.
Recovery from a Root Canal
After a root canal procedure is completed, the patient should expect their numbness to last close to two to four hours. They could experience some minor discomfort as well. If the infection was prominent and had already begun spreading, it might also require the dentist to prescribe the patient an antibiotic.
Eating is usually not recommended until the numbness has completely worn off as this prevents unintentional damage that can occur if a person were to unknowingly bite their lip or cheek. Especially if the patient receives a temporary crown, it may be best to avoid particularly hard, crunchy, or sticky foods, at least until the permanent crown is put into place.
In most cases, people who receive a root canal can return to work and their normal daily activities shortly after their procedure. They should continue with regular oral hygiene practices unless advised otherwise by their dentist.
Knowing what a root canal is, how it works, and how it could protect your future dental health is key to protecting your smile and helping it last a lifetime.