27
Aug
Frequently Asked Questions About a Dental Root Canal Procedure
While a root canal is often necessary to save a natural tooth, the phrase strikes dread in many people. The fact is that root canals are safe, effective, and virtually pain-free. And they’ve gained a reputation they don’t deserve. Let’s dive in and learn more about root canals and what you can expect if Dr. Joon Han recommends one.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure where a dentist cleans the decay inside your tooth. In most cases, a root canal can save a patient’s tooth. Here are the steps taken when your dental care provider performs this necessary procedure:
- The affected area is disinfected with antibiotics
- Bacteria and decay are extracted from the nerve, tooth pulp, and root
- The dentist fills the empty root canals
- The treated area gets sealed up to prevent new decay
Why Do I Need a Root Canal?
If you have an infected tooth pulp, you can often save your natural tooth when you have a root canal. In the distant past, an infected tooth may have required removal. However, you can often save your tooth with quick intervention with a root canal.
Cracked teeth, deep cavities, or trauma to the root can cause infected or inflamed teeth. Symptoms might include prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold foods, severe toothache, swelling in the surrounding gums, tenderness in the gums, and tooth discoloration.
Are Root Canals Painful?
More than 15 million root canals are performed every year in the U.S. While they have an undeserved negative reputation, modern dentistry has evolved to make root canal therapy as painless as possible. If you ask someone who has had a root canal done, they will likely tell you it’s no more uncomfortable than receiving a filling in a cavity. For one thing, your mouth will be thoroughly numbed with local anesthesia. Depending on your preferences or that of your dentist, nitrous oxide gas may be used to help you relax.
How Long Does It Take for a Root Canal?
Most root canals are performed in one visit to the dentist and take between 60 and 90 minutes. During this time, the dentist removes the infected pulp, cleans and shapes the canal, and applies a filling.
What Can I Eat After a Root Canal?
After your root canal, it’s best to eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored. Stick to foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, soups, and smoothies. Avoid foods that might damage the tooth or temporary filling, such as sticky, crunchy, or hard foods. Also, it’s a good idea to avoid extremely hot foods and beverages for a couple of days following your root canal.
Where Can I Receive a Dental Root Canal Treatment in Streamwood, IL?
If you have a dental infection, Dr. Joon Han and the team at Irvington Dental in Streamwood, Illinois, are here to help you save your tooth. Call (331) 245-2969 today to learn more about what you can expect with root canal therapy.
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Irvington Dental
Dr. Joon Han
Dr. Joon Han, a Board-Certified Prosthodontist, the owner of Irvington Dental, and founder of Scharrington Dental is dedicated to providing top-tier dental care in Schaumburg, IL. He holds a BA in Chemistry and Music from Illinois Wesleyan University, a Master's in Chemistry from the University of Illinois – Chicago, and a DDS from the University of Illinois – College of Dentistry, where he received the Howard Kubuki Award for Clinical Excellence. As one of only 31 Board Certified Prosthodontists in Illinois and a Fellow of the American College of Prosthodontists, Dr. Han's comprehensive expertise and collaboration with specialists ensure trusted, exceptional patient care.