The Root Canal is perhaps the most misunderstand procedure, and while in the past it was often accompanied by a painful experience, that is not the case now. Modern root canals are relatively pain free. This guide will show you everything you need to know before your visit to the dentist. If you have more questions, give us at Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA a call to speak with a dentist. Call us at (909) 481-8990 to arrange an appointment today.

Root Canal Basics

A root canal is a procedure mean to preserve a dead tooth. In most cases, the tooth has become infected and in order for the functionality of the tooth to be preserved, the infected tissue is removed and then the shell is filled, saving it so that no future infection can happen. A root canal is a fantastic alternative to the removal of a tooth. Pulling the tooth will often require a replacement, such as an implant or a prosthetic, to fill the hole in the jaw. This is important not only for the aesthetic quality of the tooth, but to preserve the jaw bone. The jaw bone will decay at the missing tooth site, dramatically changing the shape of your face. The procedure removes infected tissue and leaves behind a brittle tooth prone to fracture. Once completed, the root canal is quickly followed by the creation of a crown. The crown is often made of metal and serves as a strong protection to preserve the integrity of the tooth and prevent further damage.

Why should I get a root canal?

A root canal will mean that you will not have to extract the tooth. This can save you thousands of dollars on implants or prosthetic. You are able to keep your tooth and the crown keeps the natural strength of the tooth in tact. You also preserve your jaw bone around the tooth, and so your face will retain its natural shape. However, no root canal can fully clean out the infection. It can also be very difficult to sit for the required hours to clean out the infection with your mouth open the whole time

How does the procedure go?

The hardest part of the procedure is having to sit in the dentist chair for a few hours with your mouth open the whole time. If you can do that, you can easily complete the procedure. During the procedure, the dentist will begin by removing the infected or inflamed pulp, carefully cleaning out the tooth, and then filling and sealing the space to prevent reinfection. There is often a deep, full local anesthesia administered, and this is generally more than is often required for a filling. This is because the density will be removing the nerve present in the pulp. Multiple x-rays are needed to ensure the instruments are in the correct position to remove the infected pulp. The dentist may put a rubber dam over your mouth to keep bacteria out of your mouth, and to prevent you from swallowing medications. It essentially isolates the tooth from the mouth so that the dentists can complete the root canal. Then there will be a follow up visit that will involve placing the crown which will allow you to chew and use the tooth just like normal

Questions to ask your dentist

Before you agree to a root canal, be sure to ask your dentist any questions you have. Here are some to help you get started.
  • Is the procedure truly necessary?
  • Is there a possibility the tooth will recover?
  • What is the reason for the pulp’s death?
  • What are all my options?
  • What will happen if I don’t go through with the procedure?
  • Should I just install an implant?
  • How predictable is the treatment?
  • Do I need to see a specialist?
If you want to ask these or any other questions, give us a call at (909) 481-8990 to speak with a dentist at Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA.