- Root Canal -
Root Canal Services For Anderson, SC
A root canal is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or has become infected. Root canal procedures are performed when the nerve of the tooth becomes infected or the pulp becomes damaged. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed.
Root canal procedures have the reputation of being painful. In actuality, most people report that the procedure itself is no more painful than getting a filling for a cavity. The discomfort experienced before seeking dental care is truly the most painful period of time, not the root canal procedure itself.
Signs You May Need A Root Canal
• Severe toothache or tooth pain upon chewing or application of pressure
• Prolonged sensitivity/pain to heat or cold temperatures (after the hot or cold has been removed)
• Discoloration (a darkening) of the tooth
• Swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums
• A persistent or recurring pimple on the gums
• Sometimes no symptoms are present
Root Canal Recovery Process
Recovering from a root canal treatment is typically an extremely straightforward process. Most patients are able to resume their normal activities the next day. After the procedure, it's common to experience some tenderness and mild discomfort in the area surrounding the treated tooth. These issues can usually be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, though you should contact our office if your pain lasts for longer than a few days. To keep your recovery proceeding smoothly, we advise our patients to take the following precautions:
- Chew Carefully: Avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth until the numbness has completely worn off and the permanent filling or crown is placed. This helps prevent any accidental biting that could damage your temporarily vulnerable tooth.
- Manage Swelling: Swelling should be minimal, but to keep it under control and help manage pain, you can apply a cold compress to your cheek near the affected area.
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: It’s imperative to be diligent about your oral care routine, especially while you are recovering from a root canal. Gently brush and floss the area after meals to keep it clean and minimize your risk of infection.
- Be Gentle: Avoid smoking and don’t consume very hot or cold food or beverages for a few days following your root canal procedure. This helps the area heal.
Most discomfort from your root canal should subside within a few days. However, if you experience severe pain, visible swelling, or an allergic reaction to the medication, it's important to contact our dental team for a solution. With proper care, the recovery period is usually brief, allowing you to enjoy restored functionality and relief from your pain or discomfort. If you have any further questions about the root canal recovery process, or what to expect from the procedure, get in touch with our team today! We proudly provide service to patients throughout Anderson, SC and the surrounding areas.
Ways to Avoid Potential Root Canals
While we specialize in performing comfortable and efficient root canal procedures, our main goal is to have our patients avoid these circumstances through better dental hygiene practices. The best way to avoid tooth decay and infection is to make sure you are brushing and flossing on a daily basis. Regular teeth cleaning can help to avoid a number of different infections and issues inside our mouths. Our dentists and specialists suggest that all sticky and high sugar foods and drinks should be consumed in moderation, and that when we do treat ourselves that we take an extra minute to properly clean our teeth. Call today to make your regular teeth cleaning appointment or visit us if you are experiencing tooth pain!
