Did you know that 9-20 percent of Americans feel anxious or worried and don’t end up seeing their dentist? If you have an upcoming root canal and feel worried, we can help.
In this article, we’ll discuss what happens during a root canal.
Want to learn more? Keep reading.
You Will Receive a Local Anesthetic Injection
The dentist performing the root canal will administer a local anesthetic. This way, you won’t experience any discomfort or pain.
Some people don’t want to get a root canal done because they are already experiencing a lot of pain.
Your dentist will try and make you feel comfortable during the procedure.
Dental Dam
After administering the anesthetic, the dentist may put a dental dam over your mouth. The dental dam will isolate the tooth that’s getting the root canal. It will also keep any debris from your mouth.
Your Dentist Will Remove Decay
Next, the dentist will drill at the decay and get rid of the inside of the tooth containing pulp. They use files to scrub things inside the root of the tooth.
Once the dentist removes the infected areas, they will disinfect the inside of your tooth.
Fill the Inside of the Tooth
The dentist will begin to fill up the inside of the tooth. A natural latex called gutta-percha will get inserted to fill the tooth’s roots.
The dentist will use a harder composite to fill the crown part of the tooth.
What Happens After the Procedure?
Once the anesthetic begins to wear off, you might start to feel some pain or soreness. These sensations will begin to fade. Some dentists will prescribe an antibiotic to clear up the remaining bacteria.
You might also receive a prescription for pain. You could take an over-the-counter pain med to help with any discomfort you experience.
The first few days after the procedure, you might chew food on the other side of your mouth. You could also choose to eat softer foods. Continue to floss and brush your teeth.
Follow up With Your Dentist and Get a Crown
A week after the procedure, you will need to see your dentist. Your dentist can make sure that your tooth is healing.
Your dentist will also put a crown on your tooth. After a root canal, your tooth is more brittle because it lost most of its inner structure.
The crown will allow you to continue to chew food and not end up with a broken tooth.
Learn more about root canals.
Now You Know What to Expect During a Root Canal
We hope this guide on how to prepare for a root canal was helpful. Make sure you ask your dentist any questions before the procedure.
You will be given an anesthetic during the procedure, so you don’t feel discomfort or pain.
Did you find this article helpful? Check out our helpful resources on fitness, health, and more.
