Root Canal Treatment Explained: What to Expect

When it comes to dental procedures, root canals often have an intimidating reputation. However, modern root canal treatments are safe, effective, and designed to relieve pain—not cause it. At Dentist of Torrance in Torrance, CA, we believe in demystifying dental care, and we’re here to explain everything you need to know about root canal treatments, from what they are to what you can expect during and after the procedure.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure used to save a tooth that has been badly damaged or infected. Inside each tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause severe pain, swelling, and, if left untreated, can lead to an abscess or even the loss of the tooth.

The root canal procedure involves removing the damaged pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and sealing it to prevent future infections.

Why Might You Need a Root Canal?

There are several reasons you might need a root canal:

• Severe Tooth Decay: Deep cavities can allow bacteria to enter the pulp, causing infection and inflammation.
• Cracked or Chipped Tooth: A fracture or break in the tooth can expose the pulp to bacteria.
• Multiple Dental Procedures: Having multiple treatments on the same tooth can stress the pulp, leading to damage.
• Trauma: An injury to the tooth, even without visible damage, can lead to pulp inflammation.

Common symptoms that indicate a root canal may be necessary include severe tooth pain, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling around the tooth, and darkening of the tooth.

What Happens During a Root Canal?

A root canal procedure typically requires one or two visits, depending on the condition of the tooth. Here’s what you can expect:

• Initial Examination and X-rays: Before starting the root canal, your dentist will take X-rays to examine the extent of the damage and locate the infection.
• Local Anesthesia: You’ll receive local anesthesia to numb the area around the affected tooth. The procedure is designed to be painless, and the anesthesia ensures you’ll remain comfortable throughout.
• Accessing the Pulp: The dentist will create a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the infected or inflamed pulp.
• Cleaning and Shaping: Using small dental instruments, the dentist will carefully remove the damaged pulp from the inside of the tooth and root canals. The empty space is then cleaned and shaped to prepare it for filling.
• Filling the Root Canals: Once the area is thoroughly cleaned, the root canals are filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This material helps seal the tooth and prevent further infection.
• Sealing the Tooth: The tooth is temporarily sealed with a filling to protect it until a permanent restoration (usually a crown) is placed.

Post-Procedure Care and Recovery

After the root canal procedure, it’s normal to experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity in the treated area for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any discomfort. Your dentist will provide specific instructions for aftercare, which may include:

• Avoid Chewing on the Treated Side: Give the tooth time to heal by avoiding chewing hard or sticky foods on the treated side until the permanent crown is placed.
• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Continue brushing and flossing as usual, but be gentle around the treated tooth.
• Follow Up for a Crown: In most cases, a root canal-treated tooth will need a crown to restore its strength and function. Be sure to schedule the follow-up visit to have the permanent crown placed.

How Long Does a Root Canal Take?

The length of a root canal procedure varies depending on the complexity of the case. Most root canals can be completed in one or two visits, with each visit lasting around 60 to 90 minutes. More complicated cases, such as those involving multiple canals or infections in hard-to-reach areas, may require additional time.

Common Myths About Root Canals

Root canals have been surrounded by misconceptions for years. Here’s the truth behind some common myths:

• Myth: Root canals are extremely painful. Fact: Thanks to modern dental technology and anesthesia, root canals are no more painful than having a cavity filled. The goal of the procedure is to relieve the pain caused by the infection, not to create more.
• Myth: You don’t need a root canal if the tooth doesn’t hurt. Fact: While pain is a common symptom, some teeth may need a root canal without causing severe pain, especially if the infection is caught early. X-rays and exams can reveal issues that may not be immediately painful but still require treatment.
• Myth: Extracting the tooth is better than getting a root canal. Fact: Saving your natural tooth is always preferable to extraction. A root canal preserves the tooth and allows you to maintain normal chewing and biting function. Removing a tooth can lead to complications, such as shifting teeth and bone loss.

The Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

Root canals offer several benefits over tooth extraction:

• Preserving Your Natural Tooth: The primary benefit of a root canal is that it saves your natural tooth. Once the infection is removed, the tooth can be restored to full function with a crown.
• Relieving Pain: Root canal treatment eliminates the infection or inflammation causing your pain, providing immediate relief.
• Preventing the Spread of Infection: By removing the damaged pulp and sealing the tooth, a root canal prevents the spread of infection to other teeth and surrounding tissues.
• Restoring Function: Once the procedure is complete and a crown is placed, your tooth will be fully functional, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile without discomfort.

What to Expect After a Root Canal

While the root canal itself is designed to stop pain and eliminate infection, it’s important to remember that your tooth is not fully restored until the permanent crown is placed. Until then, you’ll need to take care to protect the tooth from damage.

Over time, with the right care, a root canal-treated tooth can last just as long as your other teeth, allowing you to maintain a healthy smile.

Root Canal Treatments in Torrance, CA

Root canal treatment is a safe and effective way to save a damaged or infected tooth while relieving pain. At Dentist of Torrance, we are committed to providing comfortable, high-quality care for every patient. If you’re experiencing symptoms of tooth infection or have been advised to get a root canal, rest assured that the procedure will help restore your dental health and prevent future complications.

Have questions about root canals? Contact Dentist of Torrance today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you with your dental care needs.