A root canal removes inflamed or infected tissue from inside a tooth, cleans and disinfects the canals in its roots, and seals that space to help keep bacteria out. For many people, it means keeping a tooth that would otherwise have to come out.
Root canals have a scary reputation, but the treatment goes after the cause of the pain. Once the tooth is numb, it is usually a lot like having a larger filling done. At Your Olathe Dentist, Dr. Tony Raper has completed advanced training in endodontics (root canal care), and he will look at your symptoms, explain what he finds, and talk through your options with you.
What Is Going On Inside the Tooth?
Every tooth has soft tissue in its center called the pulp. It holds the nerves and blood vessels, and it runs from the middle of the tooth down through thin canals inside each root.
Deep decay, a crack, a hard knock, or several rounds of dental work on the same tooth can damage the pulp or let bacteria in. The tissue can then become inflamed or infected, which often brings pain and sometimes swelling.
When the pulp is too damaged to heal, a root canal may be recommended. The other option is usually taking the tooth out, depending on how much of it is left and whether it can be rebuilt.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Trouble inside a tooth can show up in several ways, including:
Pain that hangs on after something hot or cold.
A deep, throbbing toothache that can get worse at night.
Pain when you bite down or chew.
A tooth that turns darker than the teeth around it.
A small bump on the gum near a tooth, which can be a sign of infection.
Swollen or tender gums around one tooth.
Some people have no clear symptoms at all. The problem may first turn up during a checkup or on a digital X-ray.
If a bad toothache suddenly goes away, do not take that as a sign it has healed. The nerve may have died, but an infection can still be there and keep causing trouble.
An exam, X-rays when needed, and a few simple tests on the tooth help show what is causing the symptoms and whether a root canal is the right fix.
If you notice facial swelling, a fever, or pain that keeps getting worse, get dental care soon. Trouble breathing or swallowing needs emergency medical care right away.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
Root canal treatment usually follows these steps:
Numbing the tooth. A local anesthetic helps keep you comfortable throughout.
Reaching the pulp. A small opening is made in the tooth to get to the damaged tissue.
Cleaning the canals. The affected pulp is removed, and the canals are cleaned, disinfected and shaped.
Sealing the canals. The cleaned canals are filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha and sealed.
Rebuilding the tooth. The opening is closed with a filling or other restoration, and a crown may be recommended to protect what is left.
Some root canals are finished in one visit, and others take more than one, depending on the tooth and the infection. Many can be done right here in our Olathe office, though a tooth with unusual roots may be referred to an endodontist (a root canal specialist).
You may feel pressure or vibration, but tell us if anything hurts so we can help you get comfortable.
What to Expect After a Root Canal
It is normal for the tooth and the gums around it to feel tender for a few days, especially when you bite. That soreness usually fades as the area heals.
Follow the instructions you are given for easing discomfort and caring for the tooth. You may need to avoid chewing on that side until the final restoration is in, especially if you have a temporary filling.
Call the office if the pain gets worse instead of better, swelling starts or grows, or a temporary filling or crown comes loose.
Why a Crown Often Follows a Root Canal
Finishing the root canal is only part of the job. The tooth may also need a restoration that protects it from everyday chewing.
A tooth that needs a root canal has often already been weakened by decay, a large filling, or a crack. The opening made during treatment can take away a little more of its structure.
For back teeth, a dental crown is often recommended to cover and protect the tooth. Some teeth can be restored with a filling or another option instead, depending on how much healthy tooth is left.
Dr. Tony will explain which restoration fits your tooth and when it should go on. Following through with that final step helps protect the treated tooth from breaking down later.
Root Canal or Tooth Extraction?
When a tooth is damaged or infected, a root canal and an extraction may both be on the table. The right choice depends on how much damage there is, how well the tooth is likely to hold up, your overall dental health, and cost.
Root canal treatment removes the damaged tissue and keeps your natural tooth. It will usually need a filling or crown afterward, depending on its condition.
Tooth extraction takes the whole tooth out. If you decide to replace it, options may include a dental implant, a dental bridge, or a partial denture.
Keeping your own tooth is often worth it when it can be restored well, but a root canal is not the right answer for every tooth. We will talk through the likely outcome, the alternatives and the costs so you can make a decision you feel good about.
Have a Toothache? Let's Take a Look.
Tooth pain, sensitivity or swelling that will not go away is worth having checked. An exam can find the cause and show whether a root canal or a different treatment makes the most sense.