Instructions Before Root Canal Treatment
If you’re experiencing chronic pain in one tooth, or several teeth, there’s a chance you’re suffering from inflamed or infected dental pulp, or the soft tissue within your teeth. If this occurs as a result of tooth decay, tooth trauma (accident/injury), or possibly an issue with old dental work, a root canal may be the best solution to alleviate your discomfort.
Any time you have lasting tooth or mouth pain, you should visit Fioritto Family Dental to consult with our for diagnosis and treatment.
Learn about the Root Canal Procedure
The best preparation for your root canal starts with asking our dentists what to expect. The procedure begins with numbing of the area to ensure your complete comfort, after which a hole is carefully drilled into the tooth to expose the pulp. Dead or decaying pulp is then removed.
The tooth will then be filled and sealed. Depending on the extent of the damage to the tooth structure, a crown may be recommended. A temporary crown may be required until a permanent crown can be fabricated.
Discuss Anesthetic Options
Most root canal procedures are performed under local anesthesia. This means a topical numbing product will be applied to the gum. This topical anesthetic is used to eliminate any discomfort when a local anesthetic is injected.
Our dentists are committed to providing a comfortable experience for every patient, so if you experience dental anxiety, don’t hesitate to ask about our sedation dentistry options. If you opt for sedation dentistry, you should plan to bring another person to your appointment so that they can drive you home after the procedure.
Recovery
Your mouth will remain numb for several hours following your root canal. As such, it is not advisable to eat or drink hot beverages especially during this time, as you could accidentally bite or burn yourself. As the anesthetic wears off, it’s normal to experience some tenderness and discomfort. Typically, this is easily treated with over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
It is advisable to chew soft foods for a few days following your root canal, as the area could be sensitive. You should definitely avoid hard foods (ice, hard candy, etc.) and sticky foods if you have a temporary crown – you certainly don’t want to break it or pull it loose. If pain or other symptoms worsen in the days following your root canal procedure, call us immediately and we take care of any concerns or issues.
If you’re in pain, and you suspect a root canal may be required, contact Fioritto Family Dental at 440-951-5511 or online today!