Understanding Root Canal Treatment Process and Recovery

1. Understanding Root Canal Treatment Process and Recovery “Root canal” is a phrase no one wants to hear associated with their dental care. It can trigger anxiety and discomfort in many people in Wasilla, AK. At Matsu Dental, Alice C. Isom, DMD, LLC, and our staff are committed to making our patients as comfortable as possible. We want to help you better understand this important dental procedure. A root canal treatment is a procedure to save a tooth that has become badly damaged or infected. During the treatment, the damaged/infected pulp will be removed from the tooth, as will any nerve endings present. The tooth is then thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and sealed to prevent further infection. The staff at Matsu Dental will give this general overview of the root canal process: Root Canal in Wasilla, AK Diagnosis – If you are experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, contact a dentist in Wasilla AK. After determining a diagnosis, your dental professionals will review your X-rays to determine the extent of the damage to the tooth to prepare for treatment. Anesthesia: First, a local anesthetic will be administered to numb the tooth, ensuring a virtually pain-free experience. Pulpectomy: Once the tooth is numb, the dentist will create an opening in the crown of the tooth and remove the infected pulp from the pulp chamber and canals using special instruments. Cleaning and Shaping: The root canal space will then be cleaned and shaped to prepare it for filling. This is an important step because leaving any trace of bacterial infection could cause a new infection in your tooth. Filling: After the infected pulp has been removed and the root canal has been thoroughly cleansed, the cleaned root canal will be filled with a biocompatible material, usually a substance called "gutta-percha." The root canal is then completely sealed using adhesive cement. With the root canal restored in this way, the structure and function of the tooth will be completely renewed. Recovery from a root canal treatment is generally quick, and most patients can return to their regular activities the day after the procedure. You may have some tenderness in the treated area, but most patients find that it is easily managed with an over-the-counter pain medication. Your dentist in Wasilla, AK will give you instructions to follow to ensure smooth recovery. Once the root canal procedure is finished, the tooth will need a crown or other restoration to protect it and return it to full function. At Matsu Dental, your dentist will see to it that your restoration is created to match perfectly with the rest of your teeth.

2. Good oral hygiene is essential after the procedure to avoid re-infection. This means regular brushing, flossing, and visits to your Wasilla, AK dentist for check-ups and cleanings. In summary, a root canal is a safe, effective way to save a tooth that might otherwise need to be removed. The multitasking staff at Matsu Dental in Wasilla, AK will make certain your root canal treatment is as comfortable as possible. We take great pride in our patient care – and our state-of-the-art techniques. If you need a root canal or are still worried about the procedure, don’t hesitate to call Matsu Dental, your trusted source for root canal treatments, and complete dental care.