What You Should Know About The Root Canal Procedure

You have been avoiding it for some time now, but you can no longer deny it: You need to see a dentist to fix your tooth, and it may involve a root canal. Though it can be nerve-racking, root canals are fairly common treatments used to help save an infected or damaged tooth by removing the infection from inside the root before sealing it to protect it from future issues. As such, if you believe you need a root canal but aren’t sure what to expect, please read on, then contact one of our experienced dentists located in Basking Ridge and Morristown, NJ, to learn what you should know about the root canal procedure.

What Is a Root Canal, and When Is It Necessary?

A root canal, formally called endodontic treatment, is a procedure used to treat infections and inflammation inside the pulp of a tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue that connects nerves and blood vessels. In the event that bacteria reaches this pulp, treatment is required to relieve pain and prevent worsening conditions.

Common Causes of Root Canal Infections

• Deep cavities that allow bacteria to reach the inner layer
• Cracked or chipped teeth that expose the pulp
• Multiple dental procedures on the same tooth
• Untreated decay resulting in a deep infection
• Trauma to a tooth, even if no visible damage or cracks are present

What Are The Signs That You May Need A Root Canal Procedure?

Familiarizing yourself with the most common signs and symptoms that a root canal is necessary is critical to preventing the spread of the infection and to reducing the need for additional, more extensive dental work. While consulting an experienced Basking Ridge dentist is necessary for a formal diagnosis, the following are signs that you should schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

Warning Signs of a Tooth Nerve Infections

• Persistent pain
• Lingering sensitivity to heat and cold
• Tooth discoloration
• Swollen or tender gums
• Pain when chewing or touching the tooth
• Swelling of the face or jaw
• A small bump on the gums (potential abscess)

What Happens During a Root Canal?

There is a considerable amount of misinformation regarding root canal procedures. In reality, modern treatment is designed to be incredibly safe, comfortable, and highly effective. As such, the goal of a root canal is to save the natural tooth while clearing out the infected tissues to provide comfort without extracting the tooth. Understanding what happens during this process can help you feel more comfortable before your appointment.

Step-By-Step Overview

• Local anesthesia is used to numb the area so you are comfortable during the procedure
• A small opening is made in the tooth to provide access to the infected tissue
• Your dentist will carefully remove the diseased pulp and bacteria from the tooth
• The inside of the tooth will be cleaned and disinfected
• Your canals will be filled and sealed with a rubber-like material
• Your dentist may place a crown on the tooth to protect and strengthen it

Does a Root Canal Hurt?

Unfortunately, many individuals are nervous to have a root canal done because they are worried it will be incredibly painful. However, with modern technology and anesthesia, many dental patients we see in our Basking Ridge and Morristown offices compare the feeling to getting a filling done.

What Patients Typically Experience

• Pressure or movement during the procedure, but not sharp pain
• Mild soreness or aching within the first few days following the procedure
• Relief from severe pain caused by the infection
• Ability to return to normal activity within a few days

Why Saving the Natural Tooth Matters

The only alternative to a root canal is the extraction of the tooth. While this may seem like a quicker, less invasive procedure, it’s important to understand that saving the structure of the natural tooth has a number of benefits.

Benefits of a Root Canal

• Prevents the spread of infection to other teeth
• Maintains natural bite and chewing
• Preserves the jawbone structure
• Prevents nearby teeth from shifting

What Happens After a Root Canal in New Jersey?

Once you have a root canal performed, it’s important to understand that you no longer have living pulp tissue in the tooth. As such, taking additional steps to protect the tooth is critical.

Post-Treatment Care and Recovery

• Avoid chewing on the tooth until a crown is placed
• Attend all follow-up appointments to ensure recovery is going smoothly
• Maintain comprehensive brushing and flossing to prevent reinfection of the tooth

Contact The Dental Associates of Basking Ridge

At the Dental Associates of Basking Ridge, we understand that, despite being an important procedure, many are afraid of having a root canal performed. That is why our team is ready to help you through this process. Our trained staff will do everything possible to make this procedure as efficient and comfortable as possible so you can have peace of mind for the future of your oral health. If you believe you have a nerve infection in your tooth, do not hesitate to contact our office to learn how we can help you.