Endodontics treatment is recommended when the pulp chamber of a tooth has been compromised. This area contains soft tissues like blood vessels and nerves, and it is sealed off from the rest of the tooth so bacteria and acids in the mouth cannot reach the soft tissues in it.
Severe tooth decay or damage to a tooth can end up opening the pulp chamber, leaving its contents exposed to acids and bacteria in the mouth. At that point, you might experience severe toothaches, and your risk of the tooth getting infected goes up. Fortunately, a root canal can be performed to save the tooth and end any pain caused by it.
During endodontics therapy, the dentist injects the patient with a local anesthetic so they do not feel pain during the procedure. A drill is used to make a hole into the pulp chamber, and its contents are removed. Medication might be inserted into the tooth to fight off any infection before it is sealed back up with gutta-percha. The tooth might then be covered up with a crown or rebuilt with composite bonding. The location of the tooth often determines which restoration the dentist uses.
There is no recovery period after getting a root canal, but there are some simple things patients can do to ensure things go smoothly. These include:
Patients should avoid putting stress on the newly restored tooth for the first few days after the treatment. Gum tissues around the restored tooth will likely be sore, so patients should avoid chewing food with the restored tooth.
Patients should also wait until the anesthetic wears off before eating. They can easily bite into soft tissues like their cheeks while their mouth is still numb. Sticking to primarily soft foods for the first few days after getting a root canal can help to avoid complications.
Brushing twice a day and flossing daily helps to combat any infection in the treated tooth. It also protects the restored tooth against tooth decay. An antibacterial mouthwash can be used to reduce bacteria in the mouth.
Patients should follow any instructions provided by the dentist. If antibiotics are prescribed to help fight an infection, patients should take them as directed. Failing to use antibiotics as directed by a healthcare professional limits their effectiveness. The same goes for any medication recommended for pain management. Over-the-counter painkillers are often enough to deal with any discomfort the patient experiences after a root canal.
Root canal therapy allows a dentist to restore a severely damaged or infected tooth. It brings an end to any pain being caused by your condition, and you should not experience significant discomfort afterward. Think you might need a root canal? Give us a call or visit our Bakersfield clinic to set up a consultation with our dentist.
Request an appointment here: https://brimhalldentalgroup.com or call Brimhall Dental Group at (661) 249-1122 for an appointment in our Bakersfield office.
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