Root canals may seem intimidating at first. If your dentist mentions you may need a root canal, it’s normal to be confused about what to expect. After all, people tend to say they’d “rather get a root canal” than their least-favorite activities at the time. So let’s look at what to expect when you get a root canal and ways to notice signs of dental infection.

 

What is a Root Canal

To understand a root canal, first, you need to understand the structure of your teeth. The outer part of your tooth is the enamel, with the visible portion of your tooth behind the crown. The root of your tooth is what connects it to your jaw and keeps your tooth in place. Inside your tooth is called the pulp. This pulp has an open space called root canals where your nerves attach to your teeth. A root canal involves hollowing out the inside of your tooth entirely. This treatment is usually used to treat an infection or abscess in your tooth. 

 

Signs of an Infection

Some signs of a root canal infection include toothache or tooth sensitivity, especially to cold or hot sensations. In addition, you may have an infection if you have a low-grade fever, sensitive or swollen gums, and aching, radiating pain from your tooth. Keep an eye out for symptoms like this, as they can signal you need a root canal. If you are worried you have a dental infection, be sure to call your dental team as soon as possible. By catching a dental infection early, you can prevent more serious dental issues and relieve your pain faster. 

 

Root Canal Treatment: What to Expect

Root canals involve removing the inside of your tooth, filling the empty space to avoid further infection, and applying a dental crown to help support the remaining tooth. First, your dental team evaluates your tooth to ensure that all signs of infection have been removed. Then, the interior of your tooth is cleaned and filled. Since this process requires your dentist to drill into your teeth, you will most likely need a dental crown to help restore the chewing surface of your teeth. 

In most cases, a root canal can be done in one appointment and should only cause minor discomfort. Thanks to modern anesthesia and topical numbing agents, you should feel almost nothing during your root canal. In most cases, the lingering dental sensitivity should go away after a few days. Of course, you should call your dental team immediately if you see any signs of infection or experience ongoing dental pain after a root canal.  

 

If you want to learn more about root canals or have any other dental questions, call our office at (845) 434-1202. Here at South Fallsburg Dental, we aim to provide excellent, full-service dental care to the Fallsburg, NY area. Our team of trained dental professionals can answer any dental questions you may have and help you maintain a healthy, glowing smile. Call to make an appointment today!