In a mission to save your tooth from an extraction, a root canal treatment can be done when still possible. That is the goal of dental care, to maintain your natural teeth and its optimal function. Your teeth are still irreplaceable, even if there are promises of dental works and treatments.
You undergo a root canal for several reasons. The most common are:
(1) severe toothache due to decay and infection;
(2) inflamed gums; and
(3) crack or chip in the tooth
What is a Root Canal and What to Expect?
A root canal is an endodontic treatment that treats the inside of the tooth. When the soft tissue in your tooth, called the pulp, becomes inflamed or infected, it can cause tremendous pain. That’s when a root canal is needed.
Since there’s a worsening infection in the tooth, a root canal treatment will be done to extinguish the bacteria in the root canal. The procedure involves the removal of the infected pulp, thorough cleaning inside the tooth and disinfection. A filler and a sealant will be used to close the treated area to prevent pain and further infection.
There’s nothing to worry about with a root canal treatment. It’s almost painless, safe and extremely effective. It can be completed in two appointments depending on the condition of your tooth. Downtime is minimal, you should just be able to care for your teeth properly with good oral hygiene.
Root canals also maintain the natural appearance of your teeth. The only difference is that it’s more protected now, leaving no room for pain or infection.
Get a Dental Crown Prepared for the Tooth
The caveat with a root canal treated tooth is that it’s prone to fracture and breakage. Mainly because the tooth is not as strong as before. In this case, your dentist will recommend placing a dental crown on the tooth to make it more durable.
As its name implies, a crown sits atop of a tooth as the covering. It could be made of metal, porcelain, ceramic or powdered glass.
The procedure of placing a dental crown is altogether separate from the root canal treatment you just had. It follows after a week or two when your teeth have already recovered. It basically involves fitting a mould into your tooth to ensure that the crown will fit correctly. Initially, a temporary crown will be placed while the permanent one is being fabricated. At your next visit, the permanent crown will be fixed.
Home Care After Root Canals
Just like with any other dental procedure, aftercare is important to ensure that the treatment will be effective for a long time.
You should avoid chewing or biting down anything hard. Don’t use the treated tooth excessively until fully restored with a crown. Good oral hygiene is a must! Brushing and flossing will keep the area clean preventing any infection.
As needed, take anti-inflammatory or pain medicine prescribed by your dentist. Don’t do any heavy work within 24 hours after the procedure. You might experience tooth sensitivity or slight discomfort but it’s expected to go away after a few days. If pain persists, take a trip to your dentist to assess the condition.
MFDC Offers Best Root Canal and Dental Crowns in Charlotte
Modern Family Dental Care in Charlotte wants you to be free from pain and healthy. If we can restore your natural teeth, we’ll do it by all means. One of our most effective procedures to save your teeth from an extraction is our root canal treatment and capping it off with a dental crown.
So if you are having some tooth pain and it’s becoming unbearable, head to any of our dental offices near you. We are in Concord Mills, Davis Lake (University Charlotte area). We will assess the root cause and recommend the proper treatment to treat your case. If it’s a root canal, then we’ll do it with utmost care and precision.
