Root Canal Therapy | Non-Surgical Endodontic In Arroyo Grande, CA

It used to be called a “root canal” until the American Association of Endodontists redesignated it “Non-surgical Endodontic Therapy.” It is the same thing: the same basic process, the same materials. Instrumentation, irrigation, and filling techniques have changed enough to have alleviated a lot of the “experiences” folks used to have with “root canal” treatment so the specialty decided to give the procedure a new name.

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal, or non-surgical endodontic therapy, treats dental pulp that has become inflamed or infected. The pulp is located inside the tooth beneath the enamel and a layer of dentin. During a root canal, the pulp is removed to prevent further pain and decay of the tooth. The inside of the tooth is then cleaned so it can be filled and sealed. During the next visit, a crown will be placed on the tooth to protect it.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

There are a few symptoms that will indicate that you need a root canal procedure. These include:

• Pain
• Sensitivity to heat or cold
• Tender to the touch
• Tenderness during chewing
• Discoloration
• Swelling of nearby lymph nodes or gums
• Drainage
• Tenderness in lymph nodes, bone, and gum tissues

How Long is the Recovery After a Root Canal?

The recovery after a root canal is relatively short. There may be some mild pain for a few days immediately following the procedure. If you have pain that lasts more than a few days, you should call your dentist right away.

Recovering From a Root Canal

There are steps you can take that will make the recovery go smoother. Mild pain following a root canal procedure can be relieved with over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen. Chewing hard foods can induce even more pain, so they should be avoided during recovery. Make sure to practice good oral hygiene to keep the rest of your teeth healthy.

There are also lifestyle changes that could improve your recovery. Quitting smoking is one such change. You could also try relieving stress through meditation, yoga, and other methods.

Signs of Infection After a Root Canal

Sometimes, an infection may develop even after a root canal is performed. Symptoms of such an infection include:

• Sensitivity to heat or cold
• Swelling and tenderness in the gums
• Foul-smelling drainage from the tooth or gums, which could indicate a ruptured abscess
• Darkening of the tooth, which could indicate decay

The office of Irina S. Adams in Arroyo Grande, California, can help you with your root canal needs. You can easily make an appointment online. Or you can contact us today with your questions and concerns.

Why Do I Need It?

The pulp, or soft inner tissue is important during the tooth’s development. Once a tooth is fully mature, the tooth can survive without the pulp because the tooth is nourished by tissues surrounding it. The pulp is normally surrounded and protected by a layer of dentin.