As tooth decay drills its way through the enamel, or outer surface of your tooth, it may reach the core of your tooth, infecting the pulp. In this case, your dentist would recommend a root canal procedure. Through this treatment, they will clean out the bacteria, dead nerve cells and debris inside the tooth.
Once cleaned, the tooth will be washed out and medication will be applied to eliminate any residual infection. However, if your teeth are healthy, your dentist will seal the root. To get such treatments, you can check out Durham Dental and similar offices.
“Why are My Teeth Still Aching?”
Though a root canal removes the living pulp tissue in your tooth, the nerve endings attaching the tooth and bone remain, allowing you to feel pain. On the other hand, you may experience pain due to other issues, including:
- Inflammation of the Periapical Tissues – This usually occurs due to an allergic reaction to the sealer used. Luckily, the pain will subside with time.
- A High Bite – Your dentist can easily fix this by adjusting your bite.
- Persistent Infection or Root Fracture – This is a very rare issue, but it is usually caused by delaying treatment. In this case, your tooth is no longer useful and it’ll be extracted.
- Sensitization of a Nerve – Just as in the case of phantom limbs, you may still feel the pain in your teeth although you have been healed.
“Are There Any Necessary Steps to Caring for My Teeth?”
Your dentist will tell you how to care for your teeth after a root canal. The following tips are basics instructions everyone gets though.
- Avoid eating anything until the numbness wears off. This will protect your cheeks and tongue from being chewed off.
- Don’t chew or bite on your treated tooth until your dentist allows you to.
- Brush and flow your teeth regularly to avoid more damage.
- If a temporary filling, which is applied in case anti-inflammatory medication is used, comes out entirely, contact your dentist. However, keep in mind that a thin layer is bound to wear off between appointments, so don’t worry if you spit out a little filling material.
- If you develop a swelling in or outside your mouth or experience an allergic reaction, contact your dentist immediately.
“What Should I Do in the Future?”
Once your dentist gives you the green light, you can finally carry on with your life. However, you need to start practicing good oral hygiene and brush and floss regularly. You should also visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings to save your other teeth from the same fate. However, if at any time you feel pain or experience the symptoms of severe tooth decay, book an appointment with your dentist for other root canal.
If you require a skilled dentist who can reduce the pain of the procedure and ensure that it’s a one-time-deal for your aching tooth, Dr. Dental dentists are here to help you out. Our root canal experts will patch your teeth and help you flaunt healthy pearly whites in no time.
