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Root Canal Auburn MA When your tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, a faulty crown, or a chip or crack, a root canal treatment may be necessary to restore it back to normal. A root canal is a dental procedure used to remove an infection inside the patient's tooth and protect the tooth from permanent damage, as well as damaging other teeth. It's important to note that a root canal refers to a section of the teeth containing the blood vessels, nerve tissue, and other cells. This section of the tooth is referred to as the pulp, and it connects the root and the crown of the tooth. A root canal is an endodontic therapy that is performed inside the mouth. Endodontic therapy or root canal is usually done in three sessions and is performed in three phases. If you are planning to schedule an appointment for a root canal, it's advisable to first talk with us at for a comprehensive assessment. We have qualified experts who will save your tooth through a root canal procedure. You might need root canal therapy when the tooth pulp, which is the soft tissue in your tooth's root canal, becomes infected or inflamed. Our dentist will conduct a thorough evaluation and use x-rays to assess the extent of damage before performing a root canal. Why Might I Need a Root Canal?There are various causes to infection or inflammation, and this includes chipping or cracking of the tooth, some dental procedures, or deep decay in the tooth. In addition to this, tooth trauma can damage the pulp, even when there are no signs of visible cracks or chips on the tooth. If the pulp infection or inflation is not treated, it can cause an abscess or severe pain to the tooth. What Are the Steps Involved in a Root Canal?We will always try to save your tooth first, through a root canal, before we opt to extract it. There are several steps involved in a root canal procedure. Cleaning the Root CanalThe first phase involves removing everything inside the root canal while the patient is under anesthesia. The dentist will proceed to make a small hole on the tooth's surface for easy access as the dead and diseased pulp is extracted. Since local anesthesia is used, the patient can relax throughout the procedure. Our dental professionals have years of experience and are well-equipped, guaranteeing patients an efficient cleaning process of the affected tooth.Filling the Root CanalAfter the diseased pulp is extracted and cleaned, the dentist decontaminates and shapes the affected tooth. This prepares the tooth for a filling, which is done using a rubber-like material held together by an adhesive cement, sealing the root canal. After endodontic therapy, the patient will not feel anything since the pulp is removed. It is important to schedule regular visits to the dentist before the procedure to ensure the patient meets the requirements.Adding a Crown or FillingSince the tooth is hollow and lacks the pulp that provides nourishment, it becomes brittle. The dentist will proceed to fill or add a crown for protection. The patient is advised to refrain from chewing with the tooth until the dentist completes the procedure and gives the go-ahead.How Long Does a Root Canal Take?A typical root canal is done in a single appointment, but certain situations require additional appointments. If we detect the presence of multi-canals, curved canals, and large infections, the dentist will recommend follow-up sessions. How long a root canal treatment will last depends on the extent of pulp damage and the type of tooth. Molars take longer than premolars, canines, and incisors. First, our dentist will apply numbing cream to the gum adjacent to the infected teeth and then inject a local anesthetic into it. Most patients feel a burning sensation that lasts a few minutes. Secondly, the dentist removes the pulp by making a small opening in the enamel. Thirdly, the dentist cleans the area and applies antibiotics to avoid reinfection. The dentist will then fill the cavity with filler material for protection. This process takes between an hour to 90 minutes depending on the severity of the case. Do Root Canals Hurt?Most people dread the thought of going for endodontic therapy because of the fear of pain. Patients usually think the procedure is painful, but the diseased pulp is the cause of the pain. Although the procedure is intrusive, when performed by our professional dentist, you can relax knowing that an expert has everything under control. You may feel a slight burning sensation, that is normal and common, when injecting the anesthesia. However, you will not feel any pain during the procedure. After the infected pulp is extracted, you won't experience any pain. Once the local anesthesia wears off, you can expect some normal tenderness. The dentist will prescribe pain-relieving medication and antibiotics to prevent and treat infections. Expect some discomfort for a few days after the procedure but visit our dentist if there is persistent pain. A dentist or endodontist should perform a root canal to minimize the risk of infection. Can You Eat After a Root Canal?Diet after a root canal is restricted to soft foods. Even then, patients should wait until the anesthetic wears off before enjoying their meals. Appropriate foods include mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, smoothies, and yogurt. You may also consume cooked or blended veggies, fruits, pasta, and fish. Avoid eating hard foods that can remove or damage the temporary crown. Also, avoid hot or cold drinks that may cause tooth sensitivity and sticky foods that could dislodge the crown. You will receive specific instructions after your root canal regarding when you can resume your regular diet. Schedule a Root Canal Appointment Today!If you think you have pulp damage or infection, call D.A. Dental at (774) 374-8295 to schedule an appointment with us. We will check your mouth and if we confirm the need for a root canal procedure, we will recommend treatment. We will advise on treatment after-care routines to ensure you recover fully. Contact us at (774) 374-8295 if you are experiencing tooth pain. |
