A root canal is a dental procedure that is designed to save a tooth from infection or other damage. It is usually necessary for a tooth that has been damaged by decay, physical irritation, or trauma. In some cases, the nerve tissue within a tooth has become infected or damaged so deeply that it is no longer able to function.
The nerves inside your teeth are called pulp and they live in a space called the pulp chamber. When the pulp is infected, this can cause significant pain and make your tooth unsalvageable.
Your Sarasota root canal specialist will remove the infected tissue from your tooth and seal the inside of your tooth. This will protect your tooth from infection and allow it to regain its full functionality.
When Do I Need a Root Canal?
The dentist or endodontist will recommend a root canal if your tooth has extensive damage to the pulp. This can be caused by a large cavity, deep tooth decay that has reached the root, or a cracked or fractured tooth.
Symptoms of root canal therapy include severe toothache, prolonged sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, dark discoloration of the tooth, and swelling or tenderness around the gum tissue. These symptoms will likely subside as you recover from your root canal treatment and the inflammation reduces.
What Can I Eat After a Root Canal?
During the initial recovery period following a root canal, it is important to eat only soft foods. Avoid hard and chewy foods such as raw carrots, celery and apples, which may cause discomfort or aggravate the treatment. You should also avoid biting directly on the treated tooth. You should eat slowly, chewing on the side of your mouth opposite where you were treated.
Do I Need a Follow-Up Visit after a Root Canal?
Typically, patients have follow-up visits once every six months to monitor the progress of their root canals. These visits will help your Sarasota root canal specialists ensure that your treated teeth are healthy and working properly.
Does a Root Canal Prevent Bone Loss?
When the nerve tissue in your tooth dies due to infection, bone loss can occur. This can lead to a loose or broken tooth, and it can also affect the surrounding teeth.
Your Sarasota Root Canals Specialist can evaluate the bone loss and decide whether a tooth extraction is necessary or if you need another form of dental treatment to maintain your oral health. If the bone has not significantly changed, a tooth can be saved and restored with a dental implant or bridge.
What If I Don’t Like the Procedure?
Having a root canal is a relatively quick and comfortable procedure. During the procedure, the inside of your tooth is cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed.
There are a few potential complications during root canal therapy, such as instrument breakage or overfilling the canals. However, these complication are extremely rare.
