Root Canal

Has your dentist in New Britain, PA, recommended that you have a root canal? If so, you probably want more information about what a root canal is before you proceed. So let’s talk about what is a root canal, what is the root canal dental procedure, and how a root canal is performed. Then we will go over some common root canal questions. This information will help you make an informed decision about whether having a root canal is right for you, or if you should talk with your dentist about other options.

What Is a Root Canal?

Your root canal is the naturally occurring space inside the root of your tooth. It’s made up of a chamber that contains the tooth pulp, the main canal(s), and additional anatomical branches that connect your root canals to one another or to the surface of your tooth’s root.

What Is a Root Canal Dental Procedure?

A root canal dental procedure is when your dentist removes the bacteria from your infected root canal to prevent any further infection of your tooth. A root canal in New Britain, PA, is performed to save your natural tooth from further decay.

How Is a Root Canal Performed?

Having a root canal is a normal dental procedure. In fact, millions of root canals are done to save peoples’ teeth each year. When your dentist performs a root canal, they will remove all the tooth pulp that is infected along with the nerve from inside the root of your tooth. The dentist will then clean and shape the inside of your tooth’s root canal. Then the dentist will fill and seal the empty space where they removed the pulp and nerve.

Your dentist in New Britain, PA, will then place a temporary crown over your tooth, make an impression of that, then have a permanent crown made for that tooth. Once your dentist has your permanent crown, they will remove the temporary crown, prepare your permanent crown for bonding, then place it over your natural tooth. That’s it! You now have an almost brand-new tooth that should give you many pain-free years.

What Causes You to Need a Root Canal?

When you visit your dentist, if they see any signs of infection or nerve damage in your tooth, they will sometimes recommend a root canal. The damage could include a cracked tooth or a tooth with a significant cavity that is allowing bacteria to get into the pulp of your tooth. If these issues are left untreated, it could lead to you getting a serious infection, bone loss, or quite possibly losing your entire tooth. A root canal is performed to save your natural tooth.

Is Getting a Root Canal Painful?

When a dentist performs a root canal, they will give you local anesthesia. Therefore, having a root canal is no more painful than any other regular dental procedure.

How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Root Canal?

For most people, it only takes a few days to recover from a root canal procedure. You can take over-the-counter medication and apply a cold compress if you are experiencing any pain or discomfort.

How Long Does a Root Canal Last?

Root canal procedures have more than a 95% success rate and, in most cases, will last a lifetime. However, most crowns that are placed over your tooth after a root canal will only last about 20 years or so if they are properly cared for.