Root Canal Treatment and Crowns

Definition

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure in which the diseased or damaged pulp of a tooth is removed and the inside areas are filled and sealed.

Purpose

Inflamed or infected pulp most often causes a toothache. To relieve the pain and prevent further complications, the tooth may be extracted or saved by root canal treatment. Root canal treatment has become a common dental procedure; million of surgeries are performed every year, with a total success!

The Aftercare

The tooth may be sore for several days after filling. Pain relievers may be taken to ease the soreness. The tissues around the tooth may also be irritated. Rinsing the mouth with hot salt water several times a day will help. Chewing on that side of the mouth should be avoided for the first few days after the surgery. A follow-up appointment should be scheduled with the dentist for six months after treatment to make sure the tooth and surrounding structures are healthy.

The Results

After a successful surgery and with a successful root canal treatment, the tooth will no longer cause you any pain. However, because it does not contain an internal nerve, it no longer has sensitivity to hot, cold or sweets. So you must receive regular dental check-ups with periodic x rays to avoid further disease in the tooth. The restored tooth with attention and regular dental check ups could last a lifetime!