Have your dentist scheduled not one but two root canal appointments for you? A root canal is a dental treatment that allows one to save their natural tooth. Despite the procedure not being at the top of our priority list, you have nothing to worry about the root canal procedure. The root canal procedure is painless and safe. Most dentists prefer performing it on two different appointments.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal treatment is a dental procedure to treat an infected tooth. It removes the infected part while preserving the tooth’s structure. The procedure is considered when an injury or infection has compromised the inner part of the tooth(pulp). A dental pulp is the innermost part of the tooth. It consists of blood vessels and nerves. Increased tooth sensitivity and pain are common signs that you need a root canal procedure. Other factors that could qualify you for a root canal include the following:
- Abscessed tooth
- Broken or cracked tooth
- Severe toothache
- Hypersensitive tooth
Does Root Canal Treatment Require Two Separate Appointments?
The number of visits required for a root canal procedure depends on the situation and complication. Sometimes your dentist may recommend two root canal appointments for the following reasons:
- If you have an infected tooth, the dentist may need first to disinfect it with medication and allow the infection to clear before the root canal.
- Have to undergo more than one root canal procedure.
- When a dental crown is required to strengthen the treated tooth.
- If your tooth is calcified or too complex and needs more time to treat.
The First Appointment
During the first root canal appointment, a dental exam is done. It is used to determine if you are suitable for the treatment. Once it is concluded that you are, the treatment begins. The dentist will start by numbing your mouth with anesthesia to make the procedure comfortable and painless. Next, a dental dam is placed on your mouth to keep the tooth dry. Next, an access hole is drilled on the tooth’s biting surface to access the infected pulp.
Then using special tools, the dentist will scrape the infected part of the pulp away. The canals are then flushed and cleaned using a cleansing solution. Once the pulp is cleaned and disinfected, a temporary filling is placed.
Second Appointment
The second procedure is completing the treatment. The temporary filling placed on the first infection is removed to give space to the permanent filling. Signs for re-infection are first checked before the permanent filling is placed. Other options that the dentist can use to restore the tooth include dental crowns. In addition, the dentist may take an x-ray of the tooth to observe the success of the root canal. The x-ray sheds light inside the tooth to check for any possible obstruction.
What If I Need a Crown?
Sometimes dentist may recommend a dental crown after a root canal procedure. A crown protects the treated tooth from cracking or fracturing in the future. Hence if your teeth require a crown, the dentist will measure and shave them for the crown to fit. A temporary crown is then placed to protect the tooth before you receive your permanent crown. It will take about a week or two for the crown to be fabricated at a dental lab.
Root Canal Aftercare Tips
For a smooth recovery after the procedure, you should:
- Practice proper oral hygiene, including brushing twice daily and flossing daily. On the treated area, brush it gently to avoid irritation.
- Manage the pain by taking prescribed painkillers. Use a warm teabag as a compress on the affected side to relieve pain.
- Take soft foods such as soups, mashed potatoes, or yogurts. Avoid chewy or hard foods; they may displace or irritate the dental filling.
- Follow up with the dentist if you continue to experience pain and discomfort a week after the treatment.
ConclusionA root canal procedure will take at least two or more steps to complete. However, following these steps will increase your chance of saving your tooth for a lifetime.
If, by any chance, you are looking for dentist to get a root canal in coppell, TX then we recommend you to visit Compassion Smiles Dentistry – Coppell, TX. They have some of the best online reviews from their Coppell, TX patients.