How Urgent Is a Root Canal Therapy Visit?

Once an infection has set in deep inside a tooth, only a root canal can save it from extraction. Unfortunately, many people put off getting a root canal until it is too late. But if you know what to expect from the process and the consequences of putting off treatment, you will be more inclined to take care of the tooth as soon as possible, sparing yourself unnecessary discomfort and financial burden.

Undergoing a root canal therapy

If the dentist has indicated that a patient needs a root canal, the first thing that they will likely do is prescribe antibiotics. These can prevent the infection from spreading and worsening until the patient can undergo proper treatment, but they will not remove the infection itself. Patients need to have a root canal treatment to preserve the tooth and get rid of the infection.

Root canal therapy usually takes around two hours to complete, although multiple appointments may be necessary if the damage is extensive. To begin, a local anesthetic is used to numb the region surrounding the tooth. Next, the dentist will wrap a rubber sheet over the teeth to keep moisture out. They will then drill into the tooth to reach the infection. They will clean out the infected area and remove the infected nerve tissue, pulp, and any debris containing bacteria.

To clean the diseased pulp from the root canal and its surrounding bone, a dentist will use root canal files of progressively smaller sizes to work down the canal. The general dentist will also do periodic rinses with sodium hypochlorite or water to remove any remaining material.

The next step is to seal the tooth, which may be done the same day as the procedure. The dentist will often wait a week before sealing the tooth if they decide to put medication in the tooth to further remove any potential infection. In addition, a temporary filling will be placed in the tooth if it is not sealed on the day of the treatment, to prevent contamination from food and saliva. The final part is to place the dental crown to protect and preserve the tooth.

Why urgent root canal therapy is important

People can do more harm than good when they attempt to see how long they can go without getting a root canal. Some people are afraid to have root canals because of their unfounded reputation for being painful. The process is actually painless because a local anesthetic is used, much like getting a cavity filled.

Delaying the process might result in the growth of bacteria within the tooth, especially if the pulp or nerve tissue is damaged. If the bacteria are allowed to increase, they might cause many problems, including:

• Abscess: When a tooth becomes infected, an abscess forms. This is a pocket of pus at the root tip of a tooth and requires emergency treatment.
• Loss of bone: After some time has passed, bacteria will have attacked the root tip, leading to significant bone loss if a root canal is not performed. Teeth might fall out as a consequence of bone depletion.
• Pressure and swelling: Although patients may feel relief when the nerves begin to die, an infected tooth may still cause significant pressure and uncomfortable swelling in the face, head, or neck.

Final note

No one can avoid getting a root canal if they have a problem with their teeth. It is vital to remember that putting off a root canal will not make the pain go away. Actually, if the discomfort disappears, it might mean that the infection is still spreading. Contact the dental office if you suspect that you need a root canal.

Request an appointment here: https://www.casasadobesdentistry.com or call Casas Adobes Dentistry at (520) 365-0559 for an appointment in our Tucson office.

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