Root canals: Before and after
Although a root canal can sound intimidating, it’s actually a fairly simple procedure to help save the health of your tooth. If you’re experiencing tooth discomfort or jaw pain—talk to your Aspen Dental team about root canal therapy to get back to looking and feeling your best.
Deciding what to do before and after a root canal procedure
If your Aspen Dental care team recommends root canal therapy to benefit your oral health, don’t worry. It’s a fairly simple procedure, but it’s normal to have questions as you prepare for treatment.
Here’s a quick overview of what to expect before and after your root canal.
Before your root canal procedure
Consultation
Root canal therapy begins with a consultation with your Aspen Dental dentist. They’ll examine your tooth, take X-rays and go over your customized care plan with you.
Preparing for the procedure
Your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to best prepare for your root canal. This may include avoiding certain medications, fasting before the procedure, or arranging transportation if you'll be receiving any sedative medication.
Getting comfortable
Talk with your Aspen Dental care team about how you’re feeling going into the procedure. To provide you with a relaxing experience, your dentist can provide sedation if it makes you feel more comfortable.
Understanding the procedure
Understanding the steps of your root canal treatment can help you prepare for it. A root canal entails careful removal of the infected dental pulp from the affected tooth, thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the area, and then finally sealing it to protect it from future damage.
Root canal questions? Just ask.
We’re happy to answer all your questions as you prepare for your root canal. We love it when our patients show up for treatment feeling confident, and we’ll do everything we can to make you feel as comfortable as possible.
After the root canal procedure
Your healthy smile
Although they get a bad rap, root canals are straightforward dental procedures that alleviate discomfort and can save the health of your teeth. With proper care and follow-up, you’ll be smiling confidently again in no time.
Before and after root canal procedure on different types of teeth
A root canal procedure can be performed on all types of teeth, depending on the location and the condition of the affected tooth. Here’s a look at what you can expect before and after a root canal, as well as how root canals are performed on different types of teeth.
Types of root canals
Dead tooth root canals
A dead tooth root canal, also known as a non-vital root canal, is a dental procedure performed on a tooth that’s lost its vitality due to infection or trauma. A dead tooth root canal can effectively save the tooth from extraction, eliminate discomfort and prevent the spreading of infection to surrounding tissues.
Incisor, canine and premolar root canals
Because incisors, canines, and premolars have a single canal, the time it takes to perform the root canal treatment is significantly shorter. If you need a root canal in one of your front teeth, you’ll also have a shorter recovery time.
Molar root canals
Molar root canals take a bit more time to treat because they have two or three canals. Your dentist will take care to properly clean and shape the multiple canals to promote the health of your tooth and prevent recurring infection.