Root Canals
Pure Dental Care offers a warm and welcoming environment where we take the time to understand your needs and goals before developing a customized treatment plan to help you maintain a happy, healthy smile that will last a lifetime.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal in Silver Springs, MD, is a dental procedure that is used to remove infections located in your tooth’s pulp (the deepest layer in your tooth). A tooth’s pulp contains blood vessels, connective tissues, and nerves.
During a root canal procedure, your dentist will remove the infected part of your tooth (pulp) and the nerve tissue inside your tooth. The purpose of a root canal is to save your natural tooth versus having it removed. A tooth can still survive without the pulp and nerves because it continues to receive nourishment from the surrounding tissues.
The Signs Indicating You Might Need a Root Canal?
You might need a root canal if you are experiencing any of the following oral issues.
- You have a cracked, damaged, or chipped tooth.
- You have a swollen jaw.
- You have tender or swollen gums.
- You have puss pockets or pimples on your gums.
- You experience hot or cold tooth sensitivity even after the source of the heat or cold has been removed.
- You feel severe pain when biting or chewing.
- You have darkening gums, a discolored tooth, or deep tooth decay.
- You have a loose tooth.
The Root Canal Procedure Step-by-Step
Your dentist in Silver Spring, MD, will start by taking X-rays of your tooth. Other tests might also be necessary to determine if your tooth’s pulp is infected.
Before beginning your root canal treatment, the dentist will apply a numbing agent to the gums around the affected tooth. They will then inject anesthesia to fully numb the tooth and nearby gums to prevent pain.
A dental dam (a thin, flexible piece of rubber) will be placed over your tooth to help keep it dry during the procedure.
The dentist will then drill a small hole in the crown (top) of your tooth so they can remove the infected pulp.
The dentist will then use small dental tools to remove the nerves, tissues, and blood vessels inside your tooth.
After your tooth’s pulp has been removed, the dentist will clean and disinfect the tooth and the tooth’s pulp and root canal chambers.
Next, the dentist will fill the tooth’s empty pulp chamber with gutta-percha (rubber-like dental material).
Your tooth will then be sealed using a temporary filling to help prevent bacteria from entering the tooth.
The dentist will make an impression of your tooth, then send it off to have your permanent dental crown made. This takes about two to three weeks or so.
Once your new permanent dental crown comes in, your dentist will place it over your tooth and check your bite. The dentist will adjust the crown as needed until it’s comfortable and fits properly.
That completes your root canal procedure.
Post Root Canal Care
After your root canal, there are some things you are going to want to do to help reduce the pain and swelling of the affected area.
- Eat soft foods for the first few days.
- Avoid chewing on the treated tooth while you are waiting to get your permanent crown.
- Don’t smoke. If you do, it will take your tooth longer to heal.
- Brush and floss your teeth like normal every day.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to help prevent germs and bacteria.
Signs You Need to See the Dentist after a Root Canal Procedure
If you are experiencing any of the following after having a root canal, you should see the dentist immediately.
Pain that doesn’t go away after a few days. You have a fever, swollen face, trouble breathing or swallowing, or you become confused or lose consciousness. Any of these signs could indicate an infection. Infections can be spread to other parts of your body and potentially cause a serious condition or worse.
Contact Pure Dental Care – A Reputable Dentist in Silver Spring, MD
If you are experiencing dental pain or other oral issues, please Contact Pure Dental Care today to schedule an exam. We have a caring team of professionals who will make you feel welcome and treat you with all the care and respect you deserve.
