Root canals have gotten a bad rap. If you’ve only heard about them on TV, you’re probably thinking they are a mess to deal with and come with a bunch of pain, annoyances, and just stress overall. However, reality can be far different from perception. We’re here to clarify everything you can expect from a root canal — and even answer some of your burning questions along the way.
What Actually Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that saves and repairs a badly infected or damaged tooth. The procedure involves removing the damaged area of the tooth (the pulp), cleaning and disinfecting it, and then filling and sealing it.
The term “root canal” comes from cleaning the canals inside the tooth’s root.
When bacteria invade the pulp of your tooth due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma, it can cause a severe toothache and sometimes even infection. Without treatment, the tissue around the tooth will become infected, and you might lose your tooth entirely. Root canal therapy preserves your natural tooth and stops the spread of infection.
Think You Might Need a Root Canal?
Your mouth sends clear signals when something’s wrong. You might need a root canal if you’re experiencing:
- Severe pain while chewing or applying pressure
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- A small bump on your gums near the painful tooth
- Darkening of the tooth
- Swelling or tenderness in the nearby gums
- Persistent or recurring pimples on the gums
Don’t ignore these warning signs! Early intervention can mean less complicated treatment and better outcomes for your oral health. If you notice any of these symptoms, call our office right away to have a dentist examine your tooth.
What to Expect During Your Root Canal Appointment
When you arrive for your root canal, our dental team will take X-rays to see the shape of your root canals and check if the surrounding bone shows signs of infection.
Local anesthetic numbs the area around your tooth, keeping you comfortable throughout the procedure. Many patients worry about pain, but with modern techniques, having a root canal feels similar to getting a filling.
After placing a dental dam (a small protective sheet) over the area to keep it clean and free of saliva, the dentist makes an access opening in the crown of the tooth. Small tools clean out the infected pulp and bacteria from the tooth’s chamber and root canals.
Once cleaned, the space gets filled with a rubbery material called gutta-percha, and a temporary filling seals the opening. You’ll return later for a permanent crown or other restoration to protect the tooth.
Do They Really Hurt That Bad?
Let’s address the elephant in the room — pain. The honest truth is that root canals have a reputation they don’t deserve. Most patients report that the procedure itself is no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed.
The real source of pain comes before the root canal, when your tooth is infected and inflamed. The procedure actually relieves this pain. With modern anesthesia and techniques, you’ll feel little to nothing during the treatment. Your mouth might feel a bit sore afterward, but over-the-counter pain medication usually handles any discomfort.
Remember, the inflammation and disease causing your toothache are what hurts — not the solution to fix it. Getting a root canal eliminates the source of your pain rather than causing more of it.
Recovery and Aftercare Following Your Root Canal
After your root canal, the area might feel sensitive for a few days, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. This discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Until your tooth receives its permanent restoration, you might want to avoid chewing on that side. A tooth without its final crown can be more vulnerable to fracture. Once your tooth is permanently restored, you can treat it just like your natural teeth.
Good oral hygiene practices are after a root canal. Brush twice daily, floss regularly, and schedule routine dental checkups. With proper care, most teeth fixed with root canals can last a lifetime.
Got More Questions About Root Canals?
If you’re still on edge, we get it. It can take a while to reduce all that stress/fear you may have about root canals. Part of the process, though, is getting good, accurate answers to some of your most important questions. Questions like these:
How long does a root canal take?
Most root canals can be completed in one or two appointments, lasting 60-90 minutes each. Complex cases might require additional visits.
Can I drive myself home after a root canal?
Yes! Unlike procedures requiring stronger sedation, root canals are performed with local anesthetic, so you can drive yourself home afterward.
Will I need a crown after my root canal?
In most cases, yes. Back teeth (molars and premolars) almost always need crowns following a root canal because they handle most of your chewing. Front teeth might not need crowns if they’re still structurally sound.
What happens if I don’t get a root canal?
Without treatment, the infection in your tooth can spread to other parts of your body, leading to serious health complications. You’ll likely eventually lose the tooth and might need a dental implant or bridge to replace it.
How can I prevent needing a root canal?
Regular dental checkups, good oral hygiene, wearing mouthguards during sports, and addressing tooth decay early are your best defenses against needing root canal therapy.
How Root Canals Can Help You Smile Again
Root canals can be a true game-changer for your dental health. The dental team at Center City Emergency Dentist provides root canals along with other emergency dental care for residents of Center City, Philadelphia, and the surrounding areas. We use the latest techniques and equipment to make your experience as comfortable as possible.
Have you been putting off dealing with a painful tooth because you’re worried about treatment? Why not give us a call today and take the first step toward relief?