TInfected and inflamed tooth pulp can cause severe pain. Root canal therapy cleans out infected pulp, relieves toothache and prevents infection from spreading to other teeth.

During the procedure, you receive local anesthesia to numb your mouth and gums. Next, they drill into the crown to reach the pulp chamber and root canal therapy Raleigh NC. They clear out nerves, blood vessels and other tissue with tiny dental instruments. They then clean and disinfect the area. Then fill the root canals with a rubber-like material called gutta percha and seal the hole with a temporary dental filling.

Preparation

Initially, the dentist will examine the tooth and take x-rays. The x-rays will help to evaluate the size, shape and depth of the root canals and to check for signs of infection. Before starting the procedure, the dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic.

Inside every tooth, underneath the white enamel and hard dentin layers, is a soft tissue called pulp. The pulp contains blood vessels and nerves and helps the tooth grow during development. If the tooth pulp becomes irritated or inflamed, it can cause pain and swelling.

Practicing good oral hygiene, avoiding sugary foods and drinks, and regular dental visits can reduce the risk of developing a damaged tooth pulp that requires root canal therapy Raleigh NC. Once the root canal treatment is complete, a restored tooth should last for many years, provided that it receives proper care and attention. A restored tooth should be crowned (capped) to protect it from chewing pressure and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting.

Procedure

After the provider removes the inflamed or infected pulp, they clean and disinfect the space left behind. Then they fill and seal the root canals with a biocompatible material called gutta percha and apply a dental cement to ensure complete sealing. The tooth is then restored with a dental filling or crown to support and protect it.

Root canal treatment is typically painless, and if you experience any discomfort after the procedure it can be relieved with over-the-counter medications. Once the anesthesia wears off, you should avoid chewing on the tooth in question to prevent recontaminating the area and help it heal.

Teeth that have undergone root canal therapy can become brittle over time as they no longer receive nourishment from the pulp. To minimize this, it’s a good idea to eat a balanced diet and maintain good oral hygiene habits, including brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. With proper care, teeth fixed with a root canal therapy Raleigh NC can last a lifetime.

Recovery

It’s normal to experience some discomfort and sensitivity after a root canal procedure. However, over-the-counter pain medications are typically effective in relieving discomfort and preventing swelling.

In addition to taking medication, it’s important to get plenty of rest to allow the body to heal properly. Swelling and discomfort usually begin to subside a day or two after the procedure.

When it comes to eating, stick with soft foods that are easy to chew. It’s also a good idea to avoid hot beverages, as they may cause irritation. Instead, opt for lukewarm or cool liquids. It’s also essential to maintain proper oral hygiene by brushing and flossing gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. In addition, be sure to use an alcohol-free mouthwash that prevents infection and promotes healing.

Follow-up

Your dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment to evaluate the healing process. This usually takes place within 4-6 weeks after the root canal therapy has been completed.

It is important that you attend any scheduled appointments so that your recovery is as smooth and successful as possible. It also helps your dentist to detect any potential problems, such as a cracked tooth.

A root canal is a highly effective procedure for saving an infected tooth and alleviating the symptoms of pain, sensitivity, swelling or discomfort without having to remove the entire tooth. However, it is necessary to be cautious when eating with the affected tooth and stick to soft foods to avoid chewing hard or crunchy items which can cause further damage or pain. It is also recommended to have a permanent crown placed on the tooth as soon as the final restoration is done, to protect the tooth from fracture or re-infection.