Root Canal Columbus

A root canal is often the only way to save a severely damaged or decayed natural tooth. Although you may be apprehensive about getting a root canal, it is a painless procedure that relieves the pain of a tooth that has been damaged to the pulp, where nerves and blood vessels are exposed to air and bacteria. Root canals may also be needed when decay is below or underneath the nerve, or the tooth has been traumatized.

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a simple surgical procedure to save a natural tooth by removing the infected pulp while leaving the dentin and enamel intact. The pulp is the soft tissue in the center of the tooth made up of blood vessels and nerves. When infected or dying, the pulp may swell, the tooth will exhibit extreme sensitivity to temperatures, and severe toothache and jaw pain are common.

How do I know if I need a root canal?

There are several signs you may need a root canal, including:

• Persistent, throbbing toothache or jaw pain
• An unpleasant taste in the mouth
• Discharge or bleeding around the tooth in question.
• Swollen, tender gums.
• Extreme sensitivity to hot and cold foods
• Chipped or cracked teeth
• A darkened tooth

If you have any of the above symptoms, it is essential to have your tooth evaluated as soon as possible. The earlier we address the issue, the more likely we can save your natural tooth.

Why do I need a root canal?

Left untreated, a decayed or infected tooth will continue to deteriorate until it has to be extracted to protect the adjacent teeth from spreading infection. Unfortunately, once a tooth is pulled, the remaining teeth shift out of alignment. You may also find eating and speaking more challenging. Finally, if the root canal is not performed, the infection can enter the bloodstream and spread to other body areas, including the heart and lungs.

How long does a root canal take?

It depends on the size of the tooth and the complexity of the root canal system. Treating a molar at the back of the mouth may take up to approximately 90 minutes to thoroughly clean all the channels of the tooth’s roots. For teeth with fewer roots, the process may take just 30 minutes for the root canal alone (not including the restoration/crown).

Is a root canal painful?

This is an old wives’ tale that we wish would go away. While a root canal may have been painful in your grandmother’s time, this is no longer true. We numb the area in and around the tooth with a local anesthetic, so you feel nothing during the root canal procedure. We also offer nitrous oxide, IV, and oral sedation to patients who are particularly anxious about the procedure. Most patients can drive home immediately after their procedure and return to normal activities. If the tooth is severely infected, it may be more difficult to numb the area. Our dentists take great pride in trying to keep you as comfortable as possible.

What is the root canal procedure like?

A root canal removes the diseased pulp from a damaged tooth. We open a small hole in the tooth’s crown to access the pulp. We remove the injured pulp using special dental tools, thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the canals. Gutta-percha (a dental putty) is placed in the canals, and the tooth is sealed closed, often with a crown, to prevent recontamination. Depending on the severity of the damage, a root canal may take one or more visits.

What is root canal recovery like?

For the first few days after the root canal, you will feel some discomfort and sensitivity in the tooth. This is natural and will subside within a few days. You can manage mild to moderate pain with over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol or Ibuprofen. Ice packs placed on the cheek can also help the day of and after the procedure.

On the day of the root canal, you should rest at home with your head elevated. Most patients can safely return to work the following day unless their job is particularly strenuous. If you have to speak a lot, you should wait an extra day to ensure any swelling has gone down sufficiently.

Do I have to have a root canal? Are there other options?

When the tooth’s pulp is infected, a root canal is the only way to save your natural tooth. Left untreated, the infection can enter the bloodstream and spread to other parts of the body, including the heart and lungs. The alternative is tooth extraction, which brings with it a new set of problems, including the shifting of the remaining teeth and jawbone loss.

Will I lose my tooth during a root canal?

No. A root canal is performed to save your natural teeth, but there can be unforeseen circumstances (tooth fractured or decayed beyond repair) that may result in alternate treatment.

What can I do to prevent a future root canal?

Good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent the need for a root canal. Brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and getting regular dental checkups are essential to keeping your teeth and gums healthy and free of tartar and infection. You should also limit your intake of sweet, sugary beverages and foods and highly acidic foods that attack tooth enamel. Avoid chewing on ice, brittles, and hard or chewy candies to prevent damaging your teeth. Even the thinnest crack in your tooth can let bacteria enter the pulp of your teeth.

If you have a toothache, a root canal is the best way to save your tooth and maintain a healthy, attractive smile. To meet with one of our dentists to discuss how a root canal can preserve your oral health, please call our office at White River Dental Phone Number 812-378-5500.