A root canal is necessary when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or inflamed. This can be caused by deep decay, repeated dental procedures on a tooth, or a crack or chip in a tooth. A root canal procedure involves removing the damaged or infected pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and filling and sealing the tooth to prevent re-infection. It is done to save the tooth from extraction and prevent the spread of infection to other teeth and areas of the body.

During a root canal, the dentist will numb the area around the tooth to make the procedure as comfortable as possible. Then, the dentist will make an opening in the top of the tooth and remove the infected or damaged pulp using small instruments. Once the pulp has been removed, the dentist will clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth to remove any remaining bacteria or debris. Next, the dentist will fill the tooth with a rubber-like material and seal the opening with a filling or a crown. This helps to prevent reinfection and strengthen the remaining structure of the tooth. After a root canal, the tooth may be sore for several days.

During a root canal procedure, the dentist will follow these steps:

1. The dentist will numb the area around the tooth using a local anesthetic.
2. A rubber dam will be placed around the tooth to keep it dry and clean during the procedure.
3. The dentist will make an opening in the top of the tooth and remove the infected or damaged tissue using small instruments.
4. The root canals of the tooth will be cleaned and shaped to prepare them for filling.
5. A filling will be placed in the root canals to seal them and prevent further infection.

Here are a few things you can do to prepare for a root canal procedure:

Wear comfortable clothing: Wear clothes that will allow you to relax and be comfortable during the procedure. Avoid anything that is tight or restrictive around the head or neck.

Inform your dentist of any medical conditions: Let your dentist know if you have any medical conditions or if you are taking any medications. This will help your dentist to provide the best care and ensure that the procedure is safe for you.

Have a plan for pain management: Your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth during the procedure, but you may experience some pain or discomfort afterward. It’s a good idea to have a plan for managing pain after the procedure, such as taking over-the-counter pain relievers or using a cold compress.

Refrain from eating or drinking anything after midnight on the day of the procedure.

It is very important to listen to your dentist’s instructions about aftercare and follow them closely. This will help to ensure that the tooth heals properly and that you experience minimal discomfort.

There are several symptoms that may indicate that you need root canal treatment, including:

Severe toothache: A severe, constant toothache that is accompanied by sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures can be a sign of an infected or damaged tooth.

Swelling and tenderness: Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the affected tooth can be a sign of an infection.

Darkening of the tooth: A tooth that has become dark or discolored may be dying or infected and may require root canal treatment.

Pus or abscess: Pus or an abscess (a pocket of pus) around the tooth can be a sign of an infection that has spread to the surrounding tissue.

Pain when biting or chewing: Pain or discomfort when biting or chewing can be a sign that the tooth’s nerve is infected or damaged.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible. While some of these symptoms can also be caused by other issues, prompt treatment can help prevent the infection from spreading and save the affected tooth.

For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are located at 3620 S Bristol St Suite 307, Santa Ana, CA 92704. We serve patients from Santa Ana CA, Orange CA, Anaheim CA, Irvine CA, Garden Grove CA, Westminster CA, Lakewood CA, Costa Mesa CA, and South Coast metro areas.