A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures performed, well over 14 million every year. This simple treatment can save your natural teeth and prevent the need for tooth extraction. At the center of your tooth is a space called the dental pulp. Infection of this space can be caused by trauma, cavities, cracks, or deep restorations. Symptoms of a problem can be identified as swelling around the tooth, sensitivity to temperature, discomfort to chewing, or lingering and spontaneous discomfort. Often, patients are asymptomatic and totally unaware they need treatment until they visit their dentist. Root canal (endodontic) therapy typically is completed in one or two visits depending on the treatment required. You will be able to drive home after your treatment, and you will likely be comfortable returning to your normal routine.
When your root canal therapy has been completed, a referral letter of your treatment and radiographs will be sent to your general dentist. You should contact your dentist’s office to schedule for the permanent restoration as soon as possible. Your restorative dentist will decide on what type of restoration is necessary to protect your tooth. It is common for your tooth to be slightly tender after root canal treatment for 1 to 2 weeks while your body heals. If your medical history allow, a combination of Ibuprofen and Tylenol taken immediately post-operatively is most effective.
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