Understanding the Procedure of a Non-Surgical Root Canal: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re experiencing a toothache or sensitivity, your dentist may recommend a root canal procedure to save the damaged tooth. But did you know that not all root canals require surgery? Non-surgical root canals are becoming increasingly popular as a less invasive alternative for patients. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about non-surgical root canals so that you can make an informed decision about your dental health. Let’s dive in!

What is a Non-Surgical Root Canal?

A non-surgical root canal is a procedure that is used to save a tooth that has been damaged by decay or injury. The procedure involves removing the damaged tissue from the inside of the tooth and then filling and sealing the tooth. This can help to prevent further damage to the tooth and can also help to improve its appearance.

Benefits of Non-Surgical Root Canals

A root canal is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected. During a root canal procedure, the damaged or infected pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth) is removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. This prevents further damage to the tooth and keeps it from becoming abscessed.

Root canals are often performed by endodontists, which are dentists who specialize in diseases of the pulp and nerve of the teeth. Root canals are usually not painful, but may cause some discomfort during or after the procedure. However, this can usually be alleviated with over-the-counter pain medication.

There are many benefits to having a root canal, including:

Saving your natural tooth: A root canal allows you to keep your natural tooth rather than needing it to be extracted (pulled out).

Preventing further damage: Without treatment, an infected tooth can lead to serious problems, such as an abscess (a pus-filled pocket that forms at the end of an infection). An abscess can cause severe pain, swelling, and even bone loss. A root canal helps prevent these problems from occurring.

Reducing pain: Once the diseased pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned out, the pain associated with an infected tooth should go away. In some cases, a crown (a cap that covers the entire tooth) may be placed on the tooth.

Risks of Non-Surgical Root Canals

There are a few risks associated with non-surgical root canals that you should be aware of before deciding if this procedure is right for you. These risks include:

-Infection: One of the most common complications associated with any type of surgery, an infection at the surgical site can occur with a non-surgical root canal. This is usually treated with antibiotics, but in some cases may require a second surgery to clean out the infected area.

-Nerve damage: Although rare, it is possible for the nerve that runs through the tooth to be damaged during a non-surgical root canal. This can result in numbness or tingling in the lip or tongue. In most cases, the sensation will return over time, but there is a small chance that it could be permanent.

-Excessive bleeding: Another potential complication associated with any type of surgery, excessive bleeding can occur during or after a non-surgical root canal. If you experience heavy bleeding, seek medical attention immediately.

-Allergic reaction: In rare cases, patients may have an allergic reaction to the materials used during a non-surgical root canal. This could cause swelling and redness in the affected area. If you notice any of these symptoms, please notify your dentist or doctor right away.

What to Expect After a Non-Surgical Root Canal?

After a non-surgical root canal, it is normal to experience some discomfort. This can be relieved with over-the-counter pain medication. There may also be some swelling and tenderness in the gums. These symptoms should resolve within a few days.

It is important to keep the area clean and free of infection. Be sure to brush and floss regularly and see your dentist for follow-up appointments as recommended.

Alternatives to Non Surgical Root Canals

There are a few alternatives to non surgical root canals. One is called a traditional root canal. This involves drilling into the tooth to reach the pulp, then cleaning and filling the canal. This can be done in one or two visits, depending on the severity of the infection. Another alternative is called an apicoectomy. This is where the end of the root is removed and the area sealed. This is usually only done if there is an infection that has spread to the bone around the tooth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, non-surgical root canal is a great option for people who want to save their teeth without undergoing extensive and painful treatments. It is important to understand the different steps of the procedure in order to make an informed decision. By following the tips outlined above, you will be able to get through the entire process with minimal discomfort and stress.

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4th of July Vacation

In observance of our Independence Day Holiday, our Dental Center will be closed from June 30th through July 10th.  We will re-open on July 11th at our normal hours.