Most of us have experienced a cavity. Maybe you had some sensitivity to sugar, heat or cold, a toothache, or noticed a spot on a tooth that didn’t look right that prompted a call to one of our dentists.
One of the reasons we like to see patients every six months is that it gives us a chance to catch a cavity before it becomes more serious, or, requires a root canal which can be a much more expensive and urgent condition. Root canals are generally preventable. Though, occasionally if a tooth has been cracked or broken bacteria can enter the root and cause an infection that spreads faster.
What is a root canal?
A root canal is when a cavity has moved from the surface of a tooth infecting the nerve, and frequently the tissue that surround it as well. The purpose of a root canal is to clean out the tooth’s interior and then to seal off the treated area, and to make sure that the infection is stopped from spreading and becoming more serious.
What to expect after a root canal:
Most people will experience little or no discomfort after any of their scheduled root canal appointments. Studies indicate that as little as 8% of patients experience pain after a root canal. But, for those who do, here’s information about possible causes and solutions.
As a general precaution, you should take things easy with your tooth for a while. There’s a good chance that the gums around your tooth may seem tender and your tooth may seem a little tender or sensitive too.
Any discomfort that’s noticed can usually be controlled by way of taking an over-the-counter analgesic, especially one that has anti-inflammatory properties such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or aspirin. (Check the label of any product you are considering, so to make sure it’s use is OK for you).
The most common source of pain after root canal treatment is inflammation of the tissues that surround the tooth’s root that you should expect to wear off within 48-72 hours. (This can make the ibuprofen remedy mentioned above a very effective one).
Since pain is uncommon after the procedure, please keep in touch with us so that we can address any concerns that might come up or so that we can inspect the filling if you think your pain is more than it should be.
The short of it: Root canals are very common, never be worried if you have one because we perform dozens every week! Second: If cost is an issue, we have payment plans! Don’t let your health be a second priority. Lastly, and most importantly: Root canals don’t feel ‘good’ but you will likely feel much less pain than the infection that brought you in the first first place.
It’s never too late to take control of your oral health and we are here to help you at Beaverton TenderCare! Enter our judgement-free zone today and let us help you Nurture Your Smile.