Root Canal Treatment – Marysville, OH
Relief for Your Tooth Pain
Are you struggling with a persistent toothache? If so, you may be experiencing decay or infection that has reached the interior, pulp layer of your tooth. Commonly referred to as a root canal, the treatment for this advanced decay typically requires the removal of the entire pulp of the tooth. Don’t worry though – we will numb your mouth thoroughly beforehand to ensure you don’t feel any pain or discomfort in the process. Below, you’ll find some helpful information about this emergency dental service, but don’t hesitate to give us a call if you’re ready to schedule an appointment!
Why Choose Darby Creek Dental for Root Canal Treatment?
- Same-Day Appointments for Emergency Patients
- Nitrous Oxide Available for Anxious Patients
- Compassionate, Experienced Dental Team
Do You Need Root Canal Treatment?
If you’re experiencing a severe, constant toothache, then you shouldn’t hesitate to schedule an emergency exam with our team at Darby Creek Dental. We also recommend giving us a call if you start to notice other warning signs of trouble, like:
- Sensitivity to changes in temperature that does not abate within a few seconds
- Red, swollen, bleeding, or inflamed gums
- Dark discoloration on the tooth in question
- A pimple-like bump on your gums
The Root Canal Process
First, we will numb the area surrounding your tooth so you don’t feel any pain or discomfort. Once you are ready to begin, we will create a small hole in the enamel so we can access the diseased and damaged particles. After the infected pulp is removed, a biocompatible filling is inserted to restore the lost structure, and the access hole used to remove the infected pulp is sealed. Finally, a dental crown is typically placed to protect the treated tooth from further damage.
The Benefits of Getting a Root Canal
When a patient finds out that they need a root canal, their initial reaction is often panic. However, there are several noteworthy benefits that come with this emergency dental treatment, including:
- Pain-free process: While root canals have a bad reputation for being painful, the discomfort is actually a result of bacteria directly affecting the tooth’s nerve, which is housed within the dental pulp. In other words, root canal therapy doesn’t cause discomfort; it significantly reduces
- Lifelike results: It’s also worth noting that – thanks to advancements in both dentistry and technology – dental crowns can be crafted from lifelike materials, ensuring that they look and feel just like the real thing. So, once the treatment process is complete, you won’t need to worry about unwanted attention being drawn to your smile!
- Conservative care: In short, if the infection is left alone to progress, there will come a time when the tooth can no longer be saved. Root canal treatment prevents that from happening, saving both your smile and your wallet in the process.
Root Canal Treatment FAQs
How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Root Canal?
Recovery time differs for each patient, but many are able to return to work or school the day following their procedure. If your job requires physical labor, it is best to take a few days off. This is because vigorous exercise can prolong the healing process by diverting blood away from the site. You will likely experience some soreness for a few days following your procedure. Take your over-the-counter and prescribed pain relievers as directed and stick to soft foods during this time.
What Should I Do Before a Root Canal?
In addition to eating a healthy meal and avoiding alcohol before your treatment, you should refrain from using tobacco products. They can interfere with the numbing medication. It is sometimes recommended to take an over-the-counter pain reliever, like ibuprofen, right before the procedure to reduce the discomfort as the numbness wears off. Make sure to get a good night of sleep the night before. This can help to reduce your nerves and prepare your immune system for a quick recovery.
Can I Take Antibiotics Instead of Getting a Root Canal?
Antibiotics are great at treating bacterial infections in almost every other part of the body, but they don’t work on tooth infections. Antibiotics travel through the bloodstream to target infected areas of the body. However, the bloodstream doesn’t reach the pulp of the tooth, so it cannot eliminate an infection in this area. If a tooth’s pulp is infected, the only options are root canal treatment or an extraction.
Can Root Canals Be Prevented?
The best way to prevent the need for another root canal is to take good care of your dental health. This includes brushing twice, floss, and using mouthwash every day. You should also see your dentist every six months for routine cleanings and checkups. This way, issues can be caught early on, potentially reducing your risk of needing root canal treatment. Stick to a healthy diet by limiting sugar, eating nutritious foods, and drinking plenty of water. Remember to always wear a mouthguard when playing sports to prevent potential injuries to your smile!