People who receive root canal recommendations often ask about the level of pain involved in this procedure. The perception that root canals are painful has led many patients to feel anxious about this dental procedure, although contemporary dentistry has significantly improved its comfort level. A root canal therapy in West Kelowna exists to eliminate pain from your tooth rather than generate it. This article provides a detailed explanation of the entire root canal process from start to finish to help you feel more comfortable about the procedure.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that repairs an infected or highly decayed tooth. Bacteria can cause intense pain or potentially an abscess once they reach the pulp (the soft tissue inside your tooth). The root canal procedure entails the removal of infected tissue and cleaning out the tooth, while the tooth is sealed to prevent further infection.
How Bad Does a Root Canal Hurt?
Everybody has a fear of experiencing pain while undergoing root canal treatment. But the reality about the treatment is that it is not painful at all. The dentist would use local anesthesia to numb the area where the treatment would take place, so the person would not feel anything during treatment. Most patients would say that a root canal feels like getting a dental filling. The type of pain caused by the infection before doing the treatment is much worse than the pain during or after the procedure.
What to Expect Before a Root Canal
Prior to your procedure, your dentist will:
- Take X-rays to evaluate the infection.
- Use a local anesthetic to numb the region.
- Put a rubber dam around the tooth to isolate it and keep it dry.
You might also be given antibiotics if there is a serious infection.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
The real procedure comprises several principal steps:
- Numbing the Tooth – Your tooth will be made numb so you won’t feel any pain with a powerful local anesthetic.
- Removing the Infection – An opening is made in the tooth and the infected pulp is removed carefully.
- Cleaning and Shaping – The interior of the tooth is cleaned and shaped extensively to prepare for the filling.
- Sealing the Tooth – A biocompatible material is used to seal and fill the area to avoid future infections.
- Restoring the Tooth – Depending on the extent, a dental crown can be put in place to restore function and strength.
How Long Does a Root Canal Take?
The length of the procedure depends on the complexity of the case. On average, a root canal therapy takes about 60 to 90 minutes. Some cases can be completed in one visit, while others may require a second appointment to ensure proper cleaning and sealing.
What to Expect After a Root Canal
After the procedure, it’s normal to experience some discomfort as the anesthesia wears off. You may notice tooth pain after root canal when biting, but this should subside within a few days. Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen to help with any soreness.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
- Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the final restoration is placed.
- Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent reinfection.
- Follow any post-treatment instructions given by your dentist.
If you experience severe pain, swelling, or signs of infection after the procedure, contact your dentist immediately.
Root Canal Treatment at Westbank Dental & Implant Center
If you need root canal therapy, the expert team at Westbank Dental & Implant Center is here to help. Our experienced dentist in West Kelowna will ensure your treatment is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and restore your smile!