Root Canals

Got an upcoming root canal at Sierra Smiles? Your dentist in Pasadena TX wants you to know one thing — it’s probably not as bad as you think. Modern root canals are nothing compared to the discomfort of the original toothache, and they’re usually the only way to get you back to living pain-free once again. If you’re wondering what happens during a root canal, or how to care for your tooth after root canal treatment, we’ve got answers for you.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING A ROOT CANAL?
Root canal therapy is often the last resort for saving a tooth before extraction is necessary. It works by completely cleaning out the inside of a decayed, infected, or damaged tooth and then restoring its strength with a tooth-colored filling or sturdy crown placed on top. It’s a simple procedure, and with local anesthesia and options in sedation dentistry, we promise you won’t feel a thing.

First, your dentist will apply local anesthesia and administer sedation dentistry as desired to help you remain comfortable throughout your procedure.

The inner-tooth is accessed through a small hole placed on the chewing surface of a back tooth and behind a front tooth.

The infected pulp (also known as the “nerve”), bacteria, and toxins are removed from the inside of the tooth.

The inner tooth is measured.
The root canals are cleaned and shaped to receive the filling.
The inner tooth is filled with a biocompatible material called gutta percha.
A temporary or permanent filling is placed on the top of the tooth.

If necessary, a permanent crown restores the stability of the affected tooth (this step may be carried over into a second appointment).

After your root canal treatment is complete, patients who choose sedation dentistry are escorted to our comfortable recovery room to allow the sedation to completely wear off.

WHAT’S THE RECOVERY LIKE FOLLOWING ROOT CANAL THERAPY?
Many times, the root canal treatment is carried over into two appointments to allow the infection to completely heal. If this is required for your therapy, take care with your temporary filling — try not to chew on the affected side of the mouth, and cut out crunchy, sticky, or hard foods until your tooth has been fully restored with the final crown.

After each step of your root canal, you may experience the typical side effects associated with any oral surgery. These considerations include swelling and discomfort.

Take your pain medication as directed to soothe discomfort.
Reduce swelling during the first 36 hours by applying an ice pack in 10-minute intervals.
Plan to take it easy on the day of your treatment and avoid strenuous activity for the first few days following your root canal.

Maintain a soft-foods diet until pain allows you to resume normal eating habits. Monitor your symptoms following root canal treatment and advise your dentist if they worsen or do not improve after several days.

If you’ve got remaining questions regarding your root canal in Pasadena TX, or if you’d like to schedule an appointment for top-notch general, restorative, or cosmetic dentistry, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Sierra Smiles. Request your visit online today!