What to Expect When Getting a Root Canal

A root canal is a common dental procedure that can help save a tooth that is severely infected. Here is what you can expect during each step of the root canal treatment process:

1. Pre-Treatment Preparation

• Consultation: Before your root canal, your dentist will examine your tooth and take X-rays to assess the extent of the damage.
   

• Local Anesthesia: The dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth with a local anesthetic. This ensures you will not feel any pain during the procedure. You may feel a slight pinch when the anesthesia is injected, but it is typically not uncomfortable.
   

2. During the Procedure

• Accessing the Tooth: Once the area is numb, your dentist will create a small hole in the top of the tooth to access the infected or damaged tissue inside of the tooth.
   

• Cleaning and Removing Infected Tissue: The dentist will use small instruments to remove the infected or decayed tissue. They will clean and shape the inside of the tooth to prepare it for filling.
   

• Disinfection: After it is removed, the space inside the tooth is thoroughly disinfected to prevent further infection.
   

• Filling the Tooth: After cleaning, the dentist will fill the empty space with a rubber-like material to seal the tooth. This step prevents bacteria from re-entering the tooth.
   

3. Post-Treatment Care

• Temporary Filling: In many cases, a temporary filling will be placed to seal the hole while your tooth heals.
   

• Crown Placement: After the root canal, your tooth may become weaker and more prone to fractures. Your dentist will often recommend placing a crown (a cap) on the tooth to restore its strength and appearance.
   

4. Recovery and Aftercare

• Mild Discomfort: It is normal to experience some tenderness or mild pain for a few days following the procedure, especially if there was infection before the treatment. Over-the-counter pain medications, like ibuprofen, can help manage discomfort.
   

• Avoid Hard Foods: For the first few days, avoid chewing on the treated tooth to give it time to heal. Stick to soft foods and stay hydrated.
   

• Oral Hygiene: Continue brushing and flossing your teeth, but be gentle around the treated area.
   

5. Risks and Complications

• Root canals are generally very safe, but, like any procedure, there can be some risks. These include infection, reinfection, or damage to the tooth or surrounding tissues. It’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions carefully to avoid complications.