Everyone wants to have a beautiful smile, which is why many people go to the dentist to fix their teeth. Unfortunately, some people may have issues with their teeth and may need a root canal. If you’re having problems with your teeth, you may be wondering what a root canal is and if you need one. Root canal treatments in Greenville, SC, are important for those who have tooth pain and require the removal of the tooth’s nerves. 

It’s easy to neglect the fact that teeth are a very important part of our daily lives. They are used for several different things, such as eating, talking, and smiling. It’s often difficult to imagine life without teeth, but for those who have had a tooth knocked out or one pulled due to infection, it’s not hard to imagine how not having teeth can affect your appearance.  

Aside from making us look drab and unappealing, not having teeth can make it difficult to eat and drink properly, resulting in additional health problems. 

Questions People Ask About Root Canal Treatments

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is the removal of the nerves inside your tooth. When you have gum disease, bacteria can enter a tooth and cause it to become infected. The infection usually starts at the bottom of your tooth and gradually spreads to the nerve in the center. As the infection spreads, the nerve feels the pain and becomes inflamed.  

When the infection reaches the nerve, a root canal may be necessary to remove the nerve and help the tooth become healthy again. This type of treatment is most commonly performed on molars or premolars, but it may be necessary for other teeth as well. The process includes using a drill to remove the infected nerve and then sealing the nerve inside the tooth.  

Because the nerve is removed, the tooth may become sensitive to cold temperatures and other stimuli, but this can be managed with good oral hygiene and proper care at home.  

How Long Does a Root Canal Take?

Depending on the severity of the issue, the time to complete a root canal can vary. For most cases, the procedure only takes about an hour, depending on the experience of the dentist and your cooperation while the work is being performed.  

You will be given a temporary filling that has been used to seal the tooth. After the procedure, the filling is removed and replaced with a permanent sealant. When the work is complete, you may feel some discomfort but will not have any major complications. The tooth will return to a normal color, and the nerve in the tooth should become healthy. 

What Should I Expect After a Root Canal?

You may experience some discomfort for a few days as the tooth heals. Sometimes, the patient may experience a mild toothache. You may also have sensitive teeth for a few weeks following the procedure, which is normal, so you shouldn’t be concerned. The sensitivity should go away within a month.  

You may experience some swelling of the gums for the first few days after the treatment. Other than this, you shouldn’t have any other problems. 

Should I Worry About Root Canal Infection After the Procedure?

Root canal infections are rare. If the tooth gets infected after the root canal procedure has been completed, it may be necessary to repeat the root canal treatment. However, this is a rare occurrence and should be discussed with the dentist if this happens.  

If the infection does reach the nerve, the result could be nerve damage, leading to more serious problems, including chronic pain or even the loss of the tooth. You can avoid these risks by cleaning your teeth properly and getting regular checkups. After the procedure is complete, you should be able to resume your normal routine and maintain a healthy smile. 

Should I Get a Root Canal or Extraction?

It is sometimes difficult to determine whether a tooth should be extracted or root canal treatment should be used. The best advice is to first try to save the tooth. However, if the infection is severe, the tooth may have to be extracted. If you are considering this process, you must consult with an oral surgeon and make an educated decision on the outcome of the case.  

You should make sure that you discuss the risks and benefits thoroughly and get the final decision from the oral surgeon. If the treatment is unsuccessful, you may find yourself with a damaged tooth that will have to be replaced, and for some people, the replacement of the tooth can be a major difficulty.  

Talk to Your Dentist About a Root Canal Treatment in Greenville, SC

If you have a damaged tooth and you’re confused about whether to extract it or undergo root canal treatment, it would be best to talk to your dentist about it to help you decide. Call us at Pelham Links Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today.