If you’re suffering from a painful broken or infected tooth, your dentist may recommend a root canal. This treatment can be extremely effective at eliminating infection, alleviating pain, and preserving your smile. But how soon can you expect relief? Here’s a closer look at this important treatment, and how long it will take for you to start feeling like yourself again.
What is a Root Canal?
Root canals are treatments that remove damaged pulp from inside a broken or infected tooth. To begin your procedure, your dentist will first numb the area. Once you are comfortable, they will drill open the tooth and remove the infected pulp from the root canals, replacing it with synthetic material that prevents the infection from returning or spreading. They will then close the tooth back up with either a filling or a dental crown.
How Long Will My Root Canal Take?
The duration of your root canal will depend on a variety of factors, including the location of the tooth and the severity of the infection. If it is very bad, it could require several appointments to complete treatment; however, in most cases a root canal can be done in 30 to 90 minutes.
How Long Does it take to Recover from a Root Canal?
The great news is that once their root canal is complete, most people experience immediate relief, and recovery from treatment usually only takes a few days. Still, it’s important to take the rest of the day off from work, school, or other obligations, including physical activity like sports or working out on the day of the procedure.
Your tooth should continue to improve with each passing day, but if for any reason it doesn’t, or if you notice signs of infection such as a fever, contact your dentist as soon as possible.
Helpful Root Canal Aftercare Tips
The great news is that after your root canal, your tooth should function the same as your untreated teeth. Avoid using it for a few days until it feels better but be sure to continue to brush and floss it as usual.
If you are experiencing any discomfort, you can take prescription or over-the-counter pain reliever or apply a cold compress to your face over the affected tooth.
Remember, root canals were designed to provide permanent relief from injury and infection, but the sooner you get help, the better the outcome. Don’t wait any longer to protect your tooth and get lasting relief. Schedule your root canal with your dentist today!
About Our Practice
At Splendid Smiles Dental Studio, the husband-and-wife team of Dr. Ashish Nayak and Dr. Sachi Brahmbhatt are here to help you look and feel your best. If you are suffering from a painful tooth infection or injury and need a root canal, we can provide smile saving treatment that relieves your pain and could even preserve your natural smile for a lifetime. To schedule a root canal, please visit our website or call us at 540-680-4880.