Root Canals

The idea of needing a root canal can make anyone feel uneasy, but it's one of the best ways to save a tooth and stop the pain caused by infection or damage. If you or someone in your family is dealing with tooth discomfort, a root canal might be the key to bringing back the health and comfort of your smile.

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What Is a Root Canal?

Inside your tooth is a soft tissue called pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When this pulp becomes infected, often due to deep decay or injury, it can cause significant pain and damage.

A root canal removes the infected tissue to prevent the infection from spreading, allowing your tooth to heal and be saved.

The procedure begins with local anesthesia to numb the area, ensuring you feel comfortable during the treatment. Once the area is numbed, your dentist will create a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.

The infected pulp is carefully removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected. Afterward, the empty space is filled with a biocompatible material to seal it off and ensure no further infection can develop.

In many cases, the tooth will need a crown to protect the tooth from future damage and allow you to chew and speak as you normally would.

Why Would You Need a Root Canal?

You might need a root canal if you experience any of the following symptoms:

Persistent tooth pain, especially while chewing or touching the tooth
Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers even after the stimulus is removed
Swelling or tenderness in the surrounding gums
Discoloration of the tooth
Recurring pimple-like bump on the gums near the affected tooth

Does a Root Canal Hurt?

The procedure itself isn’t painful thanks to the use of local anesthesia. Most patients report feeling little to no discomfort during the procedure, and any mild discomfort usually goes away within a few days.

How to Care for Your Tooth After a Root Canal

Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored with a crown
Take over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended by your dentist to manage any discomfort
Keep your mouth clean by brushing gently around the treated area and flossing regularly
Avoid very hard or sticky foods that might damage the treated tooth
Follow up with your dentist for any necessary restorative work

Contact Guiding Light Dental for Your Root Canal Appointment

Don’t let tooth pain linger! If you or a family member needs a root canal, contact Guiding Light Dental today to schedule your appointment and restore your smile’s health.