A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat severe tooth infection. It involves removing the damaged pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. You might require a root canal if you have a significant tooth infection, pain, or sensitivity. Ignoring tooth pain can lead to serious complications.
Root canal therapy relieves pain by removing the infected pulp tissue. Additionally, it allows for long-lasting restoration with a crown or fillings. After the procedure, you can keep the natural tooth. Additionally, you can avoid more invasive dental procedures. The thought of undergoing the root canal procedure is nerve-wracking for many individuals. However, it is one of the most effective and routine procedures for treating infected teeth.
Your comfort and oral health are our top priorities. Therefore, you must consult with a competent dentist. At Los Angeles Advanced Dentistry, we use advanced technology to perform root canals for our Los Angeles, CA, clients.
Understanding Root Canal
Dentists recommend a root canal to treat infection or inflammation inside the tooth’s pulp. The pulp is the innermost part of the tooth. It contains nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels. When a tooth infection reaches this part, you could experience severe pain and sensitivity. Root canal treatment aims at:
- Removing the infected pulp.
- Cleaning and disinfecting the tooth pulp.
- Filling and sealing the canal.
- Restore the tooth's function with a filling or crown.
A root canal treatment preserves the natural tooth and helps avoid extraction. Some of the indications that you could benefit from the procedure include:
Persistent Toothache
Root canal is an ideal treatment for a chronic toothache that does not go away with pain medication. Inflammation or infection in the pulp tissue can cause the pain. When the pulp is damaged, you could experience pain that radiates to other areas, like the jaw or ear. Root canal therapy provides long-term relief from this pain. Additionally, it saves the tooth by preventing extraction.
Severely Broken or Cracked Teeth
Teeth can crack as a result of trauma, biting down on complex objects, or even prior dental treatment. Tooth cracks permit bacteria to infiltrate the tooth's inside. It can result in inflammation and infection of the pulp tissue. In these situations, you may need a root canal to remove the damaged pulp tissue and prevent further infection.
Prolonged Sensitivity
Mild sensitivity to cold or hot beverages or foods is sometimes normal. However, if the sensitivity lingers, it may indicate severe damage to pulp tissues. The lingering sensitivity, especially to heat, is a red flag for nerve damage. Your dentist can recommend a root canal to remove the affected pulp and restore the tooth.
Swelling or Abscess Formation
A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that forms due to a bacterial infection inside the pulp or surrounding tissues. Fever or swollen lymph nodes can cause jaw, face, or gum pain. An abscess indicates the infection has spread to the surrounding tissue and bone. Dentists recommend root canal therapy to remove the infection and stop further issues.
Repeated Dental Procedures on the Same Tooth
Performing multiple dental procedures on one tooth can damage its pulp. Over time, the damage can lead to pulpitis. Under these circumstances, you may need a root canal to preserve the tooth’s structure and avoid extraction.
Deep Dental Decay
When tooth decay reaches the pulp, it allows bacteria to enter the innermost part of the tooth. When left untreated, tooth decay can lead to an infection and abscess. A deep cavity that exposes the pulp chamber requires root canal therapy. The procedure involves the removal of the infected pulp to prevent the infection from spreading to surrounding tissues.
Root Canal Procedures
The root canal procedure takes the following steps:
Initial Assessment
Your dentist will initially assess your teeth and oral health before a root canal procedure. Additionally, your dentist will ask about your symptoms and order diagnostic tests like X-rays to view the severity of your tooth infection. These X-rays help the dentist identify any infection in the surrounding bone.
Anesthesia Administration
The dentist administers a local anesthetic after determining the need for your root canal. Anesthesia helps to minimize pain and discomfort during the root canal process. At your initial examination, you must notify your dentist if you have an anesthetic allergy. The dentist allows a few minutes for the anesthesia to take effect before initiating the procedure.
Placing a Dental Dam
When the gums around the problematic tooth become numb, the dentist places a dental dam around the tooth. The dental dam keeps the tooth clean during the procedure. It isolates the treatment area and prevents bacterial contamination.
Removal of the Pulp
Your dentist will use a dental drill to open up the tooth crown. The opening allows the dentist to reach the root canals. The dentist removes the infected tissue from the pulp chamber using specialized endodontic tools. This relieves pressure and pain caused by inflammation or infection.
Cleaning and Shaping the Canals
Your dentist will clean and disinfect the pulp chamber after removing the pulp. The dentist may rinse the canals during cleaning and shaping to remove loose debris and bacteria.
Drying the Canals
After cleaning and shaping the root canals, the dentist will dry them with absorbent paper. This step ensures that the canals are adequately prepared for sealing. Moisture in the canals can compromise the filling material or allow bacteria to re-enter the tooth.
Filling the Canals
After drying the canals, your dentist will fill them to seal the space and prevent future bacterial contamination. Filling the canals restores the tooth's internal structure and helps maintain its function.
Temporary Filling
The dentist places a temporary filling in the access opening to protect the tooth while waiting for the final restoration. The filling keeps out bacteria and food particles. If you are scheduled for a same-day restoration, the dentist may proceed to the final step.
Permanent Filling or Crown
A tooth that has undergone a root canal is more brittle and prone to fracture. After the root canal, a crown is necessary to restore the strength and appearance of the tooth. If you need a crown, the dentist will take an impression of your teeth and send them to a lab for a custom-made crown.
When the crown is ready, the dentist will cement it into the tooth on your final visit. Your dentist can apply a permanent filling instead of a crown for front teeth, which undergo less pressure during chewing.
Root Canal Aftercare Instructions
A root canal procedure often brings relief from pain. However, proper aftercare is essential to ensure healing, prevent complications, and protect your restored tooth. After your procedure, the dentist can give you the following aftercare instructions:
Immediate Post-Procedure Care
After the procedure, your mouth may remain numb for several hours due to local anesthesia. During this time, avoid eating or drinking hot foods and drinks to prevent accidental burns or biting your tongue or cheek. Although the root canal is a relatively non-invasive, giving your body a chance to recover is always beneficial. It allows your body to heal and prevents accidents.
Pain Management
Your dentist will administer anesthesia before a root canal procedure. However, it is normal to experience mild to moderate discomfort or soreness for a few days after the procedure. The pain arises from the inflammation of the surrounding tissues. The following are some of the ways you can manage your pain after a root canal:
- Over-the-counter pain medications. Your dentist can prescribe medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for your pain. You must follow dosage instructions carefully.
- There is a risk of infection after your root canal, which can cause pain. Therefore, your dentist can prescribe antibiotics.
- Avoid aspirin. Aspirin can thin your blood and increase the risk of bleeding.
Eating and Drinking Guidelines
You should not eat or drink before your anesthesia wears off after a root canal procedure. It helps avoid injury to the gums and other oral tissues. You should focus on soft foods, including yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, scrambled eggs, and soups.
Avoid chewing using the treated side until a permanent crown or filling is placed. Another diet restriction the dentist can issue is avoiding hard, sticky, or crunchy foods. These foods can damage the filling or tooth structure.
Oral Hygiene Practices
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial for healing and preventing further infection after a root canal. Your dentist will recommend brushing gently around the treated area, especially if you have a temporary filling or crown. Additionally, you should floss daily cautiously to avoid dislodging any temporary materials.
Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce swelling around the root canal site. If you use mouthwash, your dentist can recommend avoiding the alcohol-containing ones since they can irritate the treated tooth.
Temporary Filling or Crown Care
After a root canal, the dentist can place a temporary filling or crown to cover the treated tooth. Care instructions for the temporary crown include:
- Avoid sticky or hard foods that might pull out or damage the temporary restoration.
- Chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
- Inform your dentist promptly if the temporary crown dislodges or becomes loose.
Permanent Crown Care
A root canal-treated tooth is more susceptible to fractures. A permanent crown or filling is placed within a few weeks to restore full function and protect the tooth. You should not delay this final step. Waiting longer can increase the risk of reinfection or tooth damage. After the permanent crown placement, you must make your follow-up appointments.
Check for Signs of Complications
Complications after the root canal are rare if you follow the aftercare instructions. However, you must monitor your recovery and contact your dentist if you experience the following symptoms:
- Severe pain that does not respond to medication
- Swelling that worsens after 2–3 days
- Fever or signs of infection
- An allergic reaction to prescribed medications
- The tooth feels loose, or the filling/crown falls out.
- Persistent numbness or tingling beyond 24 hours of the root canal procedure
Complications of Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment is safe and effective. However, like other dental procedures, it carries a risk of complications. Understanding the possible complications can help you prepare for potential outcomes. The complications include:
Persistent Pain
Continued pain or discomfort is a common complication after a root canal. You can expect some sensitivity for a few days after the procedure. However, if the pain persists or worsens, it could indicate an undetected canal, inadequate cleaning, or reinfection.
Reinfection
A root canal eliminates bacteria and seals the tooth to prevent further infection. However, reinfection can occur due to the following reasons:
- Incomplete removal of bacteria during the procedure.
- A missed or hidden canal
- Breakdown of fillings.
- Cracks in the tooth that allow bacteria to enter.
Tooth Fracture
After a root canal, the tooth becomes more brittle because the pulp is removed. The treated tooth is more vulnerable to fracture without proper restoration with a crown. Dentists often recommend crowning a molar or premolar after RCT to prevent this complication.
Instrument Breakage
Endodontic files are used to clean and shape the root canals during the procedure. These files are thin and delicate, and there is a small risk they may break inside the canal. If a piece of the instrument remains lodged, it may lead to complications.
Perforation
A perforation is an accidental hole created in the tooth or surrounding tissue during treatment. It can happen if the canal is mislocated or the dentist uses excessive force. Perforations can complicate the sealing of the canal and increase the risk of infection. Depending on the severity and location, perforations may be repairable using special materials.
Allergic Reaction
Some patients may be allergic to the materials used during a root canal. This could include latex or certain medications used in local anesthesia or disinfectants. Before the procedure, you must inform your dentist of any known allergies to avoid this complication.
Sinus Injury
The roots of your upper teeth are often close to or within the sinus cavity. During the procedure, instruments or cleaning solutions may enter the sinus, leading to sinusitis, irritation, or infection. Symptoms of a sinus infection may include nasal congestion, pressure, or a persistent bad taste.
Dental Abscess
An abscess can still form after a root canal. The complication occurs when the infection is not removed. An abscess can cause swelling of the face, gums, or jaw. In this case, your dentist might prescribe antibiotics or other dental treatments to help treat the infection.
Tooth Discoloration
After a root canal, the tooth may discolor over time and turn gray or black. Discoloration is a cosmetic defect that does not impact the tooth's function. However, some patients opt for internal bleaching or crowns to restore a natural appearance.
Cost of a Root Canal Procedure
Many individuals are concerned about the cost of a dental procedure before going through with it. A root canal in California can range from $700 to $1,800 per tooth. Different factors influence the amount you will need to pay for your procedure. They include:
Tooth Location
The type of tooth needing treatment is a significant factor. Front teeth, incisors, and canines are less expensive, ranging from $700 to $1,000, because they have fewer roots. Molars, on the other hand, have multiple roots and are harder to access. It raises the cost from $1,000 to $1,800.
Dentist’s Experience and Location
Endodontists specialize in root canal treatment. These professionals charge more for the procedure than general dentists. Clinics in urban areas also charge higher prices due to the cost of living.
Dental Insurance
Dental insurance benefits can cover a portion of the cost of the treatment. Dental insurance makes a big difference in out-of-pocket expenses. Most insurance plans cover 50–80% of the procedure. If you do not have insurance, you must pay the total charge, including the consultation, x-rays, and a follow-up appointment.
Additional Treatments
After a root canal, most patients will need a crown to protect the tooth. Crowning can cost an additional $800 to $2,500 per tooth. The costs can increase further if complications arise, such as infection or retreatment.
Find a Reliable General Dentist Near Me
A root canal procedure helps to save and restore a damaged tooth. Your dentist can recommend a root canal if you have severe tooth sensitivity, infection, or persistent pain. The root canal procedure takes several dental appointments, during which the dentist removes the tooth pulp. After a root canal, the dentist can cover the tooth with a filling or crown.
Proper aftercare following a root canal is critical to ensuring a smooth recovery and maintaining the health of your tooth. You must keep up with oral hygiene and follow-up visits to protect your oral health. With the proper aftercare, your treated tooth can last as long as your natural teeth.
The outcome of a root canal procedure can impact your oral health significantly. Therefore, you must consult with a knowledgeable dentist. At Los Angeles Advanced Dentistry, we offer safe and reliable dental services for our Los Angeles, CA, clients. Contact us at 310-361-2080 today to schedule your appointment.
