Understanding the Root Canal Procedure and Aftercare

If you are undergoing a root canal procedure, it is important that you understand the process and the aftercare involved. This is a procedure that can be misunderstood but with proper knowledge, you will be able to positively manage your experience.

A root canal procedure aims to treat an infection or damage to the interior of a tooth. The tooth interior has soft tissue called the pulp. Pulp has blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue. If this is inflamed or infected as a result of decay or repeated dental procedures, there can be severe pain at the site. It will also lead to abscesses. With a root canal procedure, the damaged or infected pulp can be removed and the interior of the tooth can be cleaned and disinfected. It will then be sealed at the end so that further infection can be prevented. There are many steps involved in a root canal procedure. You can book an appointment at the dentist Cleveland Brisbane so that you can be examined. The dentist will provide an accurate diagnosis and this can involve the use of X-rays to understand the extent of infection. When the need for a root canal procedure is confirmed through the findings, the dentist will discuss the procedure with you and address any concerns you have.

Local anaesthesia will be administered so that the process can be as painless as possible. If you have severe anxiety, you will need to communicate this to the dentist early on so that they can discuss sedation options. When the area is numb, there will be an opening made in the crown of the tooth so that the pulp chamber can be accessed. The pulp will be removed using special instruments. This is an important step in the process as the dentist has to take steps to eliminate bacteria and prevent the occurrence of further infections. The area inside the tooth will then be cleaned using antimicrobial solutions. The empty root canal will then be filled with a biocompatible material so that the canal is sealed against future infections. And at the final stage, a crown will be used to restore the strength and function of the tooth. This will generally be done at a separate appointment. The temporary filling palace before will be removed so that a custom made crown can be fitted over the tooth.

There can be some discomfort after the root canal procedure and you will be provided pain relief medication for this. You can take over-the-counter pain reliefmedication but if the pain persists for more than a few days, you will need to contact the dentist. You need to ensure proper oral hygiene so that furtherinfections can be prevented. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily. You need to be careful around the treated tooth so that you can avoid irritation. Your diet may need some changes right after the root canal procedure. You will need to stick to soft foods and eliminate crunchy, hard or sticky food for the time being as this will damage the temporary filling. You will need to attend al the follow up appointments so that the dentist is able to monitor the healing process.

 
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