Root Canal Treatment
Need a root canal? Our team will ensure you are as comfortable as possible.
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Schedule with UsWhat is a Root Canal?
A root canal is the natural cavity at a tooth's core. This oral cavity contains the pulp chamber, a soft area of nerves that, if infected, can lead to adverse conditions such as face and neck swelling and bone loss near your tooth's roots.
If you are having tooth pain or discomfort and think you may need root canal treatment in Thomaston, Georgia, please call our office at (706) 647-5575 immediately to schedule an appointment.
When Do You Need Root Canal Treatment?
If you have one or more of the following symptoms, you may need a root canal:
- Severe pain or discomfort while eating
- Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Swollen gums or tooth discoloration
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- A recurring pimple on the gums
How is Root Canal Treatment Done?
Most root canals take about 90 minutes to perform with some recuperation time afterward, but this can vary depending on various factors.
Step 1. The dentist will examine the tooth in question and administer a local anesthetic if necessary.
Step 2. The dentist makes an opening in the crown of the tooth and cleans the infected pulp chamber and root canal before shaping the space for filling.
Step 3. The root canals are filled to ensure they remain fully sealed and to prevent further risk of infection. In most cases, a temporary filling is placed to plug any gaps.
Step 4. Finally, the crown or another restorative capsule is placed on the tooth to return it to its full function.
Root Canal Treatment FAQs
With the use of local anesthesia, a root canal treatment shouldn't be painful, as it helps numb the space being treated.
After a root canal, it is recommended to eat soft foods rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, such as scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, cream of wheat, soup, and broth. You can also drink herbal tea, water, and milk post-treatment. When eating or drinking, ensure your food and drinks are not too hot or cold; warm and room-temperature are best after a root canal.
A root canal procedure can take anywhere from one hour to an hour and a half, depending on the location of the root canal in the mouth.
Healing after a root canal typically takes 3-5 days, but may take a couple of weeks, depending on which teeth received treatment.
After root canal treatment, you may experience soreness and mild discomfort once the anesthetic wears off. Pain can be managed with over-the-counter medication. If there's swelling, you can use a cold compress to reduce inflammation. Within a few days, you should no longer feel discomfort. However, if discomfort persists, please call your dentist.