Millions of root canals are performed every year, and for a good reason: tons of people aren’t properly taking care of their dental health. But of course, if you already have an issue that needs to undergo a root canal procedure, then there’s not much you can do about it.
But of course, if you’re curious to know what a root canal procedure is like, you’re in the right place! Today, let’s talk about how a root canal procedure is done:
1. The Preparation Phase
Once you’ve decided to undergo a root canal treatment, you’ll need to get ready for it.
The first thing that your dentist will do is to numb your area. This is important because a root canal procedure is a painful one, and if you don’t numb the area and perform the procedure, you’re going to be in for a pretty bad time.
After the area has been numbed, you’ll be asked to stay relaxed. This is because if you are nervous going into the procedure, not only will it be harder for the dentist to work on you, but it can also even result in a more painful procedure.
2. The Drilling and Cleaning Phase
Once the numbing has set in, your dentist will begin drilling and cleaning the area. This can range from being mildly uncomfortable to being pretty painful, depending on your sensitivity to pain. However, the initial numbing will ensure that the pain is maintained, ensuring you’re as comfortable as possible.
3. The Shaping Phase
Once the area has been cleaned and smoothed, the dentist will now create a cavity in which unhealed tissue and dead nerve roots are removed, and antibiotics and a medicament are applied. The cavity is then sealed with a filling, and the area is once again numbed.
4. The Filling Phase
Next, the root canal is filled with the material to ensure that the tooth is preserved and defended against infection. The filling is meant to promote healing, keep the tooth from decaying and prevent your tooth from breaking again.
5. The Closing Phase
The final part of the root canal procedure involves the dentist performing a final check-up and x-ray to ensure that the root canal procedure was successful. If the root canal was successful, then the doctor will recommend you come in for a crown, which you can read about here.
After the root canal procedure is over, you will be given painkillers and antibiotics to take. You’ll need to be careful that you don’t overdo it, especially with the painkillers, because you don’t want to risk having a headache after taking them, let alone an upset stomach.
Conclusion
In the end, a root canal is a relatively simple procedure, one many people would be able to get through. But it’s important to not ignore the symptoms of a broken tooth, which can lead to a root canal procedure and can also lead to bigger, more expensive problems that you wouldn’t want.
As long as you’re prepared to go through with the root canal procedure, then you shouldn’t have any problems with it. But of course, if you have worries or concerns about the procedure, feel free to talk to your dentist about it!
Saint Mark Dental offers general, cosmetic, and pediatric dentistry to ensure everyone enjoys the best care they deserve. If you are dealing with a root canal infection, be sure to book an appointment with us today!
