Why Would You Need a Root Canal in Maroochydore?
There are a few common reasons why you might find yourself needing a root canal treatment in Maroochydore:
- Severe Tooth Decay: If a cavity goes untreated, it can affect the inner layers of your tooth and infect the dental pulp. This usually results in pain and calls for a root canal to save the tooth.
- Dental Trauma: An injury to a tooth can cause pulp inflammation or infection, which may require root canal treatment.
- Repeated Dental Procedures: Some teeth may have to undergo several treatments over time. This makes them more susceptible to infection, which can be managed with a root canal.
- Cracks or Chips: Cracked teeth can expose the dental pulp to bacteria, leading to infection.
- Defective Crown: If a crown doesn’t fit properly, bacteria can get trapped beneath it, leading to cavities that reach the pulp.
What Happens During Your Root Canal
If we suspect you need a root canal, we’ll start with an X-ray to get a clear picture of what’s going on. This helps us see the extent of any decay, any abscesses, and the number of root canals involved.
Once it’s confirmed that you need treatment, you’ll receive a local anaesthetic to numb the area. This will keep you awake but comfortable during the procedure. Your tooth will be isolated with a thin rubber sheet to keep it dry and clean throughout the process.
Next, our dentist will create a small opening at the top of your tooth to access the diseased or dead pulp. After removing the pulp, the empty space will be cleaned thoroughly. Sometimes, we may place medication in there to help eliminate any lingering bacteria. Depending on the situation, you might leave our clinic with a temporary filling.
If everything looks fine at your follow-up appointment, our dentist will fill the root canals with a rubber-like material. This is called a gutta-percha. After this, a permanent filling or crown will be placed on the top to protect your tooth.
What Happens After Your Root Canal
Once your root canal in our Maroochydore clinic is done, you can go home and get back to your usual routine in just a few hours. After the anaesthesia wears off, taking some over-the-counter pain relief can help ease any soreness you might feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage within the tooth’s pulp. This is the innermost part of the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. When this pulp becomes infected or inflamed, often due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma, our dentist may recommend you undergo a root canal treatment to save the tooth.
What is the root canal cost?
The root canal cost depends on the tooth’s location and the complexity of the procedure. Generally, you might expect to pay anywhere from $xxx to $xxx. While this may seem steep, it’s often less expensive than the cost of extracting a tooth and replacing it with a crown or implant. Plus, saving your natural tooth is always the best option for your long-term dental health.
How long does a root canal take to fully heal?
Typically, the initial discomfort from a root canal subsides within a few days, but complete healing can take about a few weeks. Everyone’s recovery timeline is a bit different, and it depends on the overall health of the patient.
Can I drink water immediately after the root canal?
Yes, you can usually drink water right after your root canal. However, to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue, it’s best to wait until the numbness from the local anaesthetic wears off before consuming anything hot or cold.
How long after a root canal treatment can I eat?
You should wait at least 30 to 40 minutes after your root canal before eating, especially if you received anaesthesia. It’s wise to stick to soft foods for the first couple of days as your tooth and gums heal. Once you feel comfortable and the numbness has completely gone away, you can gradually return to your regular diet. Your root canal specialist can tell you about the exact time for which you need to wait before eating.
