Preparing for a Root Canal Treatment: What to Expect and How to Get Ready
Welcome to the Frankford Dental Group blog! We're excited to have you join us as we discuss a wide range of topics related to family and pediatric dentistry in Lubbock, TX. Today we'll be talking about why root canals are important, and what you should do if you need a root canal.
Root canals are a common dental procedure used to save teeth that are severely damaged or decayed. Root canals help prevent infection from spreading from the tooth to the jawbone and other teeth throughout the mouth. During a root canal, the dentist numbs the area of the tooth, accesses the root canal system and removes the decay and damaged tissue, then fills the canals with a material that will restore the tooth’s function and strength.
Root canal therapy is designed to save a tooth from extraction when it has become infected or inflamed due to extensive decay or trauma. During the procedure, the dentist will administer a local anesthetic and carefully clean the inside of the tooth, removing the infected pulp and sealing the remaining healthy tissue and structure. After the tooth is properly cleaned, a filling material is used to fill the tooth's root canals and seal the opening. Following treatment, a crown or other restoration may be needed to ensure that the tooth is as strong and functional as possible. Though a root canal can be uncomfortable, most patients report much relief of pain and sensitivity immediately following treatment. Because root canals prevent further ecay and infection, they are essential if you wish to maintain your smile and long-term oral health.
What is a Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal therapy is a procedure used to preserve or restore a damaged or diseased tooth. The procedure involves removing the infected material inside your tooth (contents of the pulp or nerve) and damaged enamel and using an antiseptic
solution
to flush the root canal. Finally, the root canal is filled and sealed with dental material to prevent future infections and keep the tooth healthy. The sealing material used is typically an inert rubber compound or gutta-percha and may be strengthened with metal pins if needed. In addition, a dental crown may be placed to protect the tooth from further damage and restore its natural appearance. With proper dental hygiene, root canal therapy can help preserve teeth for many years, making it a safe and effective procedure for restoring a damaged or diseased tooth.
Preparing for Your Procedure
There are several steps a patient can take to prepare for a root canal procedure, including:
- Speak to Your Dentist: Make sure your dentist understands your individual needs, makes you comfortable with the process, and goes through the necessary processes to make sure your treatment is successful.
- Inform Your Dentist of Your Medical & Drug History: When appropriate, make sure to tell your dentist about any medications you may be taking such as blood thinners, and any other health conditions or past surgeries.
- Follow Pre-Treatment Instructions: Your dentist may ask you to take antibiotics prior to the root canal procedure in order to prevent any infections. Additionally, follow any other pre-treatment instructions your dentist provides.
- Take Over-the-Counter Painkillers: Depending on your individual pain threshold, you may wish to take an over-the-counter painkiller to help manage any mild discomfort or pain during the procedure.
- Arrive Early: Arrive prior to your scheduled appointment time in order to complete any pre-treatment forms or paperwork.
- Plan For Aftercare: Following your root canal procedure, you may need to take antibiotics or use a special mouthwash. Find out what aftercare instructions your dentist may want you to follow.
Root canal therapy is necessary for a number of reasons, but it can also be an intimidating process for some people. Understanding the root canal procedure ahead of time and taking appropriate steps to prepare can help make the process easier and make sure that you have a positive experience and successful outcome.
The main cause of needing a root canal is an infection of the nerve and pulp of the tooth. This infection can be caused by deep cavities, a cracked tooth, or repeated dental procedures. Common signs that you may need a root canal include pain when eating and drinking, tenderness when touching the tooth, swelling or sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to get in touch with a dentist such as Frankford Dental Group to schedule a consultation.
At our office, we approach every patient as an individual and tailor our services to meet your needs as best as possible. When you schedule an appointment with us, we will take X-rays, review your medical and dental history, and examine your teeth to determine the best course of action.
If you have any questions about a root canal or any of the other family and pediatric dentistry services we offer in Lubbock, TX, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at
(806) 587-5070. We look forward to hearing from you!
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Phone: (806) 587-5070
Email: office@fdglubbock.com
Address: 5730 66th St,
Lubbock, TX, United States
Business Hours:
Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm
Available after hours by appointment.