Root Canals – When are they needed and how to best prepare for them

Root Canals – When are they needed and how to best prepare for them

Root canals are one of the most common procedures performed by dentists. They are necessary when the pulp, or blood supply to the tooth, becomes infected or damaged. This can happen due to a deep cavity, a crack in the tooth, or injury to the tooth. Once the pulp is damaged, it cannot heal itself and will eventually die. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the bone and surrounding tissue, causing pain and swelling. A root canal will remove the damaged pulp and clean out the infected tooth so that it can heal.

There are a few things you can do to prepare for a root canal:

-Schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as you think you may need a root canal. The sooner the procedure is performed, the less damage will be done to your tooth.

-Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before your appointment to help ensure that the area around the tooth is clean.

-If you are anxious about the procedure, talk to your dentist about sedation options. This can help you relax during the procedure.

After a root canal, it is important to take care of your tooth. You will need to have a crown placed on the tooth to protect it from further damage. Your dentist will give you specific instructions on how to care for your tooth after the procedure. Be sure to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery.