Getting a Root Canal? Get Rid of the Myths First!

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A root canal sounds a little scary, and even though it is one of the most commonly performed dental treatments, it is also the one treatment associated with the most prevailing myths. Before you go in for a root canal, it is best if you know what to expect without the myths clouding your expectations or making you afraid. Here is a look at some of the more common myths about the root canal treatment and the real facts you can count on.

Myth: A root canal is a long, grueling process.

Root canals do not take all that long to complete. The dentist is essentially doing a deep filling in your tooth. You can expect the procedure to take between 30 and 60 minutes in most cases, but a more complex case may take about 90 minutes for your full appointment.

Myth: Root canals usually fail.

It is rare for a root canal to fail. In terms of this dental treatment, a root canal failure would mean that the inserted filling comes out, which can happen if a tooth is in severe enough shape before the treatment. Normally, there is no issue with this, but root canals can fail if there are unaddressed issues with infection.

Myth: You can see the difference when a root canal is done.

You can’t see a root canal in a tooth at all from the exterior. This myth comes from outdated dental treatment practices that often relied on amalgam filling material, which is grey and could be slightly visible through the tooth in some cases. Modern root canals are performed with a mixture of amalgam, composite, and other filling materials. Amalgam materials may be used lower in the root and composite used in the outer part of the tooth to retain its color and appearance.

Talk to Us About Your Root Canal Questions

When you have a root canal performed, you can be adding years of life and use to a tooth that you would otherwise lose. It is so important to get a root canal right away if this is something your dentist that your dentist is recommending. Reach out to us at Colorado Root Canal Specialist to schedule an appointment if you believe you need a root canal.

How to Recover From a Root Canal

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If you have had a deep cavity and it became untreatable, it is most likely that your dentist prescribed a root canal. If you have gone through the procedure, it may take a while before you feel like yourself again. Read on to find out how you can expedite the recovery process and resume your daily routine after a short relaxation period.

Pay Close Attention to How Your Mouth Feels and What You Eat

Pay close attention to how your mouth feels immediately after the root canal. While it is common to experience some swelling and pain after the procedure, you can lessen this if you use your mouth carefully. Do not attempt to eat until the numbness has subsided. You may bite your tongue and hurt yourself if you eat while your mouth is still numb. Plan your meals carefully for the first few days after the surgery. Incorporate nutritious foods that do not require a lot of chewing and will not hurt your tooth. You can opt for smoothies or soups.

Get Enough Rest

Just like any other surgery, you need adequate rest after a root canal for you to recover. Get enough sleep to help you speed up the recovery process so that you are back on your feet as fast as possible. A root canal can make your mouth tender and uncomfortable, making you extremely tired. Take a day or two off after the procedure to hasten recovery. You are most likely to recover faster and better if you rest, as opposed to trying to go on with life as if nothing happened.

Be Keen to Identify Any Problems With Your Crown

Most people usually have a temporary crown put on after a root canal. Pay keen attention to the crown to notice if there is any irritation or pain when you eat. Contact your dentist immediately if your temporary crown causes swelling or pain. Although you will get your permanent crown after a few days, it is vital to monitor the temporary one to prevent any possible infections. When you get your permanent crown, continue monitoring it as well.

A root canal will repair your decayed tooth and eliminate infections. Do not be scared about recovery because if you eat the right foods, have enough rest, and follow your dentist’s advice, you will soon be back on your feet.

 

How to Prepare For a Root Canal

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When the tooth’s nerves and the pulp becomes inflamed or infected, your doctor may recommend root canal treatment. During a root canal procedure, the interior part of the tooth is cleaned and dried. A dentist then adds a temporary filling. One of the primary reasons the procedure is carried out is if a person is experiencing deep decay. This occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that damage the teeth. If left untreated, tooth decay can result in excruciating pain and tooth loss. Here’s how you should prepare for a root canal:

Stay Away from Alcohol

It’s normal to feel anxious before a root canal, and you may be tempted to get drunk to reduce the worry. Avoiding alcohol means you’ll be mentally and physically ready for the dental procedure. A root canal isn’t a painful treatment, as many people tend to think. When you get drunk, you’ll only make the discomfort associated with the root canal worse. Also, dentists will inject local anesthetics into the gums during the treatment, which may lead to adverse reactions to alcohol.

Ensure You Eat

When preparing to undergo a root canal, a lot of things may come into your mind. For example, you may be wondering whether or not to eat. You’re not alone. Many physicians recommend their patients to take normal meals before going for a root canal. After the procedure has been completed, you will be numb, and you may not feel like eating for a while. If you decide to eat while experiencing the numbness, you risk biting your tongue.

Avoid Taking Medications Before Your Appointment

Unless your doctor has prescribed some drugs, ensure you avoid them before you go for root canal treatment. Some people may decide to take painkillers before an appointment. This causes discomfort and makes it hard for physicians to offer the right diagnosis. According to experts, pain management medications tend to mask discomfort you may experience after a root canal.

Get Some Rest

Having plenty of rest is necessary to ensure the effectiveness of the dental procedure. Many people tend to be nervous when undergoing a root canal. However, technological advancements have helped to improve the experience. Failure to get adequate sleep will result in more anxiety and irritability. Also, note that the recovery process for human bodies is faster when at rest. Therefore, sleeping is also necessary after treatment.

For more information about preparing for your root canal, talk to your Colorado Root Canal Specialist.