Understanding Root Canals: What You Need to Know

Understanding Root Canals: What You Need to Know

By: Hillside Dental Fine Art
Posted on: Jan 30, 2025

Root canals are often shrouded in mystery and, for some, unnecessary fear. However, this common dental procedure is a straightforward and effective way to save a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted. At Hillside Dental, we prioritize your comfort and oral health, and we’re here to provide all the information you need about root canals.

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure designed to treat infection or damage in the pulp of a tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue inside your tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When it becomes inflamed or infected due to decay, cracks, or trauma, a root canal can remove the affected tissue, alleviate pain, and preserve the tooth.

Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

It’s essential to recognize the symptoms that might indicate you need a root canal. Common signs include:

•          Severe toothache: Persistent pain that doesn’t go away.

•          Sensitivity: Heightened sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, even after the stimulus is removed.

•          Swelling or tenderness: In the gums surrounding the affected tooth.

•          Discoloration: A darkening or grayish hue of the tooth.

•          Abscess formation: A pimple-like bump on the gums near the tooth.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

The Root Canal Process

It begins with a thorough diagnosis, during which your dentist will examine the affected tooth, take X-rays, and confirm the need for a root canal. Once the procedure is planned, the area is numbed with anesthesia to ensure your comfort. The next step involves cleaning and shaping the tooth’s root canals. The dentist carefully removes the infected pulp, thoroughly cleans the canals, and shapes them to prepare for filling.

After the canals are cleaned and shaped, they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, which seals them to prevent further infection. Finally, a crown is often placed over the tooth to restore its function, strength, and appearance. Depending on the complexity of the case, the entire process is typically completed in one or two visits, leaving you with a healthier, pain-free smile.

Post-Procedure Care

After a root canal, you may experience mild discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding chewing on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored, and attending follow-up appointments are key to successful recovery.

Take the First Step Toward a Healthier, Pain-Free Smile

Root canals may seem intimidating, but they are a highly effective and routine dental procedure designed to relieve pain, eliminate infection, and save your natural tooth. At Hillside Dental, our priority is to provide comfortable and compassionate care, ensuring your oral health is in excellent hands.

If you're experiencing any symptoms of tooth infection or have questions about root canals, schedule your dental exam with Hillside Dental. Contact our office in Las Vegas, Nevada, by calling (702) 666-8584 for new patients or (702) 895-7799 for existing patients.