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Toothaches are often a reminder to take care of our teeth, as they are highly sensitive. This can be achieved by seeing your dentists regularly, at least twice a year.

Sometimes, however, more than just a teeth cleaning is required. Millions of people have saved their teeth and overall oral health by undergoing root canal therapy and other dental treatment procedures that guarantee good oral health.

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a common procedure done to remove bacteria and other disease-causing pathogens from infected teeth or root canals. The root canal treats the infection and prevents it from reinfection, thus saving the tooth and infected area.

The center of the tooth is called the pulp. When the pulp is infected, the patient undergoes a root canal, ensuring that the infected or inflamed area is removed. After that, the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and then finally sealed.

What Happens During Root Canal Treatment?

A root canal is often a quick and harmless procedure. If our dentists recommend a root canal for you, there’s no need to be alarmed. Millions of dental problems have been treated this way, and millions of teeth saved. It is a quick way to relieve pain and help you regain optimum oral health.

The pulp, which lies under the enamel, is usually a soft tissue that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. It helps the tooth’s roots grow during its early development. The pulp, however, can be removed from a developed tooth without affecting oral functions because the tissues surrounding the tooth will continue nourishing it.

A root canal procedure has been developed and simplified in recent years to become similar to routine filling procedures. Nowadays, a root canal can be done in one or two appointments. This, of course, depends on the severity of your condition and personal circumstances. It is an effective, quick, and painless procedure that guarantees the longevity of the affected tooth.

Some of the advantages of root canal treatments include:

  • Guaranteed efficient chewing
  • Returning the normal biting sensation and force
  • Natural appearance
  • Protects the teeth from excessive strain or wear

What Happens After Treatment?

After the endodontic therapy session, a patient is given the necessary instructions to help them throughout the recovery period. The knowledge on how to manage pain and care for the infected area is essential to guarantee quick recovery.

Tenderness or soreness of the mouth or affected area is the main condition experienced and can be treated using the prescribed medication. Oral hygiene is essential during this period to prevent infection.

Patients are advised to seek medical attention if they experience:

  • Swelling
  • Uneven bite
  • Prolonged pain for more than a week
  • Adverse reaction to medication
  • Similar symptoms you experienced before the first visit

Schedule Your Appointment

Most people may not realize the importance of getting the proper dental care until it’s too late. Having your oral health checked minimizes the risk of dental complications and can save you money. Our dentists in Grand Rapids, Grand Haven, and Comstock Park, MI, will ensure your root canal treatment is as comfortable as possible. Call one of our MI Smiles Dental locations today or contact us online.