Root Canal Therapy – Gainesville, FL
Saving Teeth From Extraction
When an infection enters the innermost layer of a tooth, time is of the essence. What can start out as a minor toothache can quickly develop into a serious problem. From increasing pain to possible tooth extraction, Drs. Art and Kim Mowery will need to move swiftly in order to save your tooth and prevent further damage. In situations such as these, root canal therapy in Gainesville, FL is the only effective way to treat an infected tooth. Find out more about this beneficial treatment and how to tell if you need the assistance of our doctors by calling us today.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a surgical procedure that removes harmful bacteria from the infected root canal within your tooth. As a form of endodontic treatment, which means to treat the inside of the tooth, the infected and inflamed pulp that is at the center of your tooth is removed.
By cleaning out the decayed and infected area, it can be filled to prevent reinfection and ultimately, save a tooth in Gainesville from possible removal.
Signs and Symptoms of Needing a Root Canal
Apart from the pain you may be experiencing, you might not recognize the signs or symptoms that are associated with needing a root canal. The best solution is to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors to have them examine your oral cavity and look at what is happening beneath the surface. Through a visual examination and X-rays, they will be able to tell if you are in need of a root canal.
The reasons they might recommend this type of procedure include:
- Severe decay
- Damage such as cracks or chips in the tooth
- A defective dental crown
- Multiple dental procedures that have caused your teeth to weaken
However, before you even see our team for an exam, there are other signs and symptoms that can lead you to believe that a root canal is in your future:
- Pain while chewing or biting
- Pimples that appear on the gums
- Swollen or tender gums
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods or beverages
Root Canal FAQs
Have you been told that you’re in need of a root canal? You may still have some unanswered questions about the procedure, so we’re here to help! Here are the answers to some of the most common questions we receive about root canal therapy in Gainesville. If you don’t see the information that you’ve been looking for below, don’t worry! Give us a call and we’d be happy to walk you through the procedure so that you know what to expect.
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How Much Pain Is Normal After a Root Canal?
While the root canal procedure itself shouldn’t hurt, some discomfort and soreness over the next few days are normal. After the numbness wears off, you will likely experience some sensitivity, but this should be temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Avoid chewing hard foods during the recovery period, as this can worsen any discomfort. After about three days, you should begin feeling normal. If not, give us a call!
What Should I Do Before a Root Canal?
In addition to eating a healthy meal and avoiding alcohol before your root canal, stay away from tobacco since it can interfere with the numbing medication. Most dentists recommend taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, like ibuprofen, right before the procedure to reduce discomfort as the numbness wears off. Be sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before your root canal therapy. This can help to reduce your nervousness, and it will help your immune system be ready for the recovery process.
Can I Take Antibiotics Instead of Getting a Root Canal?
Antibiotics can treat bacterial infections in almost every other part of the body, but they don’t work on tooth infections. Antibiotics travel through the bloodstream to target infected areas of the body, but the bloodstream cannot reach the pulp of the tooth. Therefore, they cannot eliminate an infection there. If a tooth’s pulp is infected, the only option other than extraction is root canal therapy.
How Long Do Root Canals Last?
Root canals have a very high success rate. Most teeth that have been treated with root canal therapy go on to provide full chewing function for many years, or even a lifetime! The longevity of your root canal will depend on various factors, such as the extent of damage to the tooth. To help your root canal last as long as possible, make sure to follow your dentist’s post-op instructions and practice excellent oral hygiene.
