If your dentist has recommended a root canal, you may be feeling pretty nervous. But there’s no need! Modern root canal treatment is less painful and stressful than in the past. We use rotary equipment at our Aberdeen, SD office for a quicker and easier procedure. You also have a choice of two kinds of soothing dental sedation. 

A root canal is needed when the soft inner pulp inside your tooth becomes inflamed or infected. Getting this beneficial treatment can save your tooth and prevent further dental problems. 

The infection can be painful. Call us ASAP at 605-277-9049 if you’re in pain. If it’s an emergency, we can usually see you on the same day. 

What Is a Root Canal & Why Do You Need One? 

The treatment removes the damaged or infected pulp from inside your tooth. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. During a root canal, your dentist drills a small opening through the top of your tooth to get to the pulp. They remove the pulp, clean and shape the space inside the tooth, and seal it with a filling or a crown.

A root canal procedure stops tooth pain and prevents further infection or damage. It also allows you to save your natural tooth instead of removing it. This keeps your other teeth from shifting out of place. It also saves you the hassle and expense of replacing an extracted tooth. Because your tooth root remains in place, you won’t experience the bone loss in your jaw that happens after you lose a tooth. Recovery from a root canal is also easier and quicker than from an extraction.

Before & After a Root Canal: What to Know

To prepare for your procedure:

  • Discuss your dental and medical histories with your dentist, so they can customize your treatment. Inform them of any allergies.
  • Arrange for a driver to take you to and from the appointment. The numbing medication may impair your ability to drive yourself home.
  • Take over-the-counter pain medication before the procedure to proactively reduce discomfort.
  • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. If you’re receiving IV sedation, it’s especially important to wear clothes that allow us to easily administer the IV. 

After the root canal:

  • Rest at home and avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it is fully healed. It’s best to stick to soft foods for a few days.
  • Take any prescribed medication exactly as directed. This may include antibiotics to prevent infection.
  • You may experience some minor pain or discomfort for a few days. You can control it with over-the-counter pain relievers.
  • Avoid vigorous exercise and activities for the first day or two.
  • See us for a follow-up exam to ensure you are healing properly. You’ll also need to have a restoration like a crown or filling placed on the tooth for full protection.

With proper self-care and follow-up, your tooth should last for many years after a root canal. It’s understandable to feel some unease about the procedure. But trust us, it’s less troublesome than you imagine. We’ll make sure you are comfortable through every step of this tooth-saving treatment!

Call Aberdeen Smiles at 605-277-9049 to see if you need root canal treatment. Or you can schedule online.