Here's What Happens During a Root Canal

If you’ve never had a root canal, chances are you’ve heard the myths. And they are myths! Today’s root canals are very straightforward. Even better, the area is completely numb before your Fairfax dentist starts treatment.

Root Canal in Fairfax

If you need a root canal, it means you have decay or trauma to your tooth—deep enough to infect the root and pulp of that tooth.

In some cases, your dentist finds the root infection during a routine exam. If the nerve is severely damaged or the infection is only emerging, you may not even have the telltale toothache or swelling.  

In other cases, you wake up with a severe toothache, jaw swelling, and a blister on the gum. It is important to contact our dental office immediately. Without treatment, the pain and symptoms will only worsen. And taking pain relievers is a temporary fix.  

If you need a root canal treatment, this means your dentist numbs the area and gently extracts the infected root and surrounding pulp from your tooth—these are the things that are causing all the pain! Not the root canal therapy. In fact, most patients only report mild pressure during treatment.

When the anesthesia wears off, you may notice mild soreness, but this does not last very long—a day or maybe two days at the most.

Prevention

The best way to prevent root infections and tooth trauma is to visit your dentist regularly for dental checkups and teeth cleanings. You should also brush and floss at least twice daily. If you grind and clench your teeth, wear a nightguard. If you play sports, wear a mouthguard.

If You Have Root Infection Symptoms, Contact Your Fairfax Dentist

Root canal pain will worsen without treatment, and we consider your pain a dental emergency. Get in touch with us for your dental emergency appointment in Fairfax.