5 Things to Know About Getting a Root Canal

Published: 07/11/2019

The nerve pain, the tender gums, the increased sensitivity to hot and cold drinks – these are all signs that you need a root canal. If you’re experiencing any of these signs, you need to talk to a dentist as soon as you can.

For the sake of your long-term health, there isn’t much to weigh when it comes to getting a needed root canal. However, there are a few things you should know ahead of time to ensure your experience is free of anxiety and surprises.

Site Prep

To get your tooth ready for the root canal, your dentist may have a hygienist give you a quick cleaning to keep the area clean. You’ll have X-Rays done to help guide the dentist and then your tooth will be surrounded by a “dental dam,” a thin sheet of rubber, to keep it clean. You’ll be given a local anesthetic, using a quick shot to the gums for the fastest onset.

Interior Cleaning

At this stage, your dentist will bore a tiny hole into the tooth and will carefully clean away the infected tooth pulp inside. Your dentist may shape the tooth even more to prepare it for a dental prosthesis, such as a crown.

Filling and Sealing

With the tooth all cleaned and formed, your dentist then fills the canal with latex, secures it with dental cement and then caps it with a temporary seal. You’ll be given a temporary prosthetic that will be functional and will look natural. You’ll likely be prescribed off-the-shelf pain medication, depending on the amount of pain you feel after the procedure.

Checkup

When you return for your follow up appointment, you’ll have your temporary seal replaced and will have your dental prosthesis bonded in place.

Find Out More

Want to know if you even need a root canal to begin with? There’s a chance you may only need fillings.

Click here to schedule a consultation with a local dentist in Thousand Oaks, CA and get answers to your questions about getting a root canal.