The very phrase “root canal” is one that patients have been programmed to avoid or even fear. Usually, they’re already in a state of discomfort and pain, making this connection somewhat natural. But getting a root canal in Albion doesn’t have to be this way.
The reality is that a root canal treatment will serve to alleviate the pain a patient is enduring and restore their dental health. Of course, there may be some discomfort, as with any procedure. But the patient’s pain can be mitigated or even eliminated with the right dentist and the right methods.
The Albion Family Dental team’s mission is to ensure our patients enjoy a relaxed and stress-free dental experience during any visit, even a root canal treatment. Let’s look at what to expect during a root canal and what to look for if you think you may need one.
Signs and Symptoms to Look For
Did you know that more than 22 million root canals are performed annually in the USA? [1] These numbers are enough to suggest that most adults will need one at some point or another over the course of their lives.
The most common need to get a root canal is when tooth root has developed extreme decay or infection. But how can you tell?
Look for these symptoms of root or tooth decay[2]:
- Severe pain while chewing
- A yellow spot on the gum
- A chipped or cracked tooth due to weakness or decay
- Lingering sensitivity to temperature
- Gums that are tender or swollen
- Darkening of the gums
If you’re experiencing any or all of these symptoms, be sure to contact our office today and start getting relief from the pain and discomfort.
What to Expect During a Root Canal in Albion
The root canal treatments previous generations were subjected to are nothing like what is practiced today. And yet, the stigma still exists. While some anxiety and apprehension are common, our team is prepared to make each patient feel comfortable and safe.
The dentist will apply a local anesthetic to completely numb the area where the root canal is being performed. This alone should prevent the patient from feeling any pain. The next step is to remove any decay or infection from the pulp of the tooth and root.
Next, your dentist will clean and disinfect the area and fill the tooth root. This is commonly done with gutta-percha, a natural material that fills the space root canal procedure created when the decay was removed. This step in the process will help decrease the chances of future infections.
The last step will be to install a crown. Due to a large portion of the inner tooth being removed, if left uncrowned, the tooth could become weak and break at some point in the future. A crown will protect the tooth and prevent additional discomfort, pain, or infection.
It’s normal for the face and jaw to feel swollen after a root canal procedure. The dentist will prescribe pain medication you can take at home as well as an antibiotic to help your body fight off any lingering infection or bacteria.
Gentle brushing and flossing should continue as normal. If the patient develops any new symptoms of pain or a fever, contact the dentist immediately as this could be a sign of a new or returning infection.
Schedule A Relaxed Root Canal in Albion!
This is a common procedure that shouldn’t make patients uneasy. The Albion Family Dental team is here to provide a relaxed and stress-free experience. Call today to schedule a consultation. 585-589-9044
Sources:
[1] https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/07/190712120232.htm
[2] https://www.aae.org/patients/root-canal-treatment/what-is-a-root-canal/root-canal-explained/