Everything you need to know about getting a root canal

Many patients ask us, “What is a root canal?”, concerned that it is a complicated and dangerous procedure that they may need. Getting a root canal can be daunting, however, it could save your tooth and prevent a lot of pain in the long run. A root canal is basically the process of taking out infected pulp inside the root of a tooth and cleaning the canals to prevent further infection. This infected pulp can be painful and may be caused by gum disease or something as simple as a chipped tooth or a cavity.

Root canal process

The first step of a root canal is getting an x-ray from your dentist. This will help determine whether or not the tooth is infected and where the infection is located. Local anesthetics will be applied after examining the x-ray and an opening is made in the crown of the tooth all the way down to the roots. Small tools are used to remove the infected pulp, clean the roots and reshape them. After the roots are given shape, the space is filled with a rubbery-like material called gutta-percha. The tooth is then sealed off with a cement adhesive and typically will be capped with a temporary filling. You will then come in for a second visit with the dentist in order to have a permanent crown put on and to check the tooth and gums after the procedure.

Misconceptions

A common misconception about root canal treatment is that it’s a painful process. Rest easy, the dentist will manage any pain and make sure patients are comfortable throughout the procedure. Also remember, a root canal relieves pain from a toothache. Many patients will say that they feel no pain from the procedure and that it feels similar to getting a filling. Another misconception is that root canals can make you sick or cause infection. It has been proven that a root canal is the best option to save a tooth from possible extraction and there is no evidence that a root canal will cause illness.

Additional Information

Over 40 million root canal treatments in the U.S. are performed a year, making it a fairly common procedure. Root canals are almost always successful in saving the tooth from extraction and most last a lifetime after undergoing a root canal procedure.

To prevent ever having to get a root canal it’s important to keep up with dental hygiene. This means brushing and flossing three times a day and regular visits to the dentist. It’s also important to get cavities filled, otherwise they could become abscessed and require a root canal.

The staff at Artistic Dental are experts in root canal procedures and will make sure to treat patients as they would their own family members. If you’re suffering from tooth pain, call and make an appointment for a complimentary consultation with one of our dentists at 602.840.5400.

Don’t take a “Holiday” from Oral Hygiene

The weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s may be the “most wonderful time of the year”, but parties and time off work don’t mean you can take a holiday from oral hygiene. Follow these simple tips to keep your smile bright and to reduce the risk of a dental emergency during the holiday season.

Schedule your sweets: Candy and cookies and cupcakes, oh my. Everyone has a favorite sweet to eat during the holidays, and nobody is suggesting you give them up completely. The trick is to be smart about when you have them. Rather than grazing on sugary treats that will sit on your teeth throughout the day, pick a time to indulge, and then plan to brush your teeth shortly afterwards.

Be aware of your beverage choices: Holiday desserts aren’t the only culprit when it comes to added sugar. Drinks like hot apple cider and eggnog can have tablespoons of sugar per serving, and red wine can stain your teeth. Make sure to rinse your mouth by drinking a glass of water after each sugary beverage, and brush as soon as you can.

Keep up your oral hygiene: Brushing and flossing regularly becomes even more important when you’re regularly enjoying sweets and treats, but crazy holiday schedules can often be a cause for missed daily brushing. Consider carrying a travel toothbrush and floss in your purse or car so you can keep your mouth clean, no matter where your celebrations may take you.

Stop stressing: The holidays can be a stressful time. Buying gifts, coordinating family schedules and planning parties can lead to tension that can cause headaches, jaw pain and even teeth grinding. Plan if possible, find ways to delegate tasks and incorporate activities like yoga into your routine to help reduce stress. If you are grinding your teeth, talk to your dentist about a night guard to prevent permanent damage.

Gift smarter: Who says stockings need to be filled with candy and chocolate? Add in fruit and sugar-free gum as healthier options, and consider a new toothbrush or fun flavored mouthwash for kids as well. An electric toothbrush also makes a great gift for adults and older children, because they are beneficial, everybody can use one, and you don’t have to worry about whether they will fit.

Visit your dentist: Many insurance plans renew for the year on January 1st, so be sure to book appointments before year-end for any cleanings or procedures you need to take full advantage of your annual benefits.

It’s never too early to think about your appointments for the coming year as well. Call Artistic Dental to schedule your next visit today!