What Is a Root Canal Like?
What Is a Root Canal Like?
Hearing the words "root canal" can make many people feel nervous, but modern root canal treatment is far less intimidating than you might think. At ESP Dental in Phoenix, AZ, we prioritize your comfort while helping you save your natural teeth. Here's what to expect during and after a root canal procedure.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage inside a tooth. Instead of removing the tooth, your dentist cleans out the infected pulp, disinfects the area, and seals the tooth to prevent further problems. This treatment relieves pain, preserves your natural tooth, and restores normal function.
Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
Persistent toothache
Sensitivity to hot or cold
Swelling or tenderness around the gums
Discoloration of the tooth
A pimple-like bump near the gum line
What Happens During the Procedure?
Numbing the Area: Your dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth to ensure you're comfortable throughout the process.
Accessing the Pulp: A small opening is made to access the infected or inflamed pulp inside the tooth.
Cleaning and Shaping: The pulp is carefully removed, and the root canals are cleaned and shaped.
Filling the Canals: Once cleaned, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed.
Restoration: A crown is typically placed over the tooth to restore its shape, strength, and function.
Does It Hurt?
Most patients say the procedure feels no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. Root canals actually relieve pain caused by infection. At ESP Dental, we use gentle techniques and local anesthesia to make the experience as smooth as possible.
Aftercare and Recovery
Mild soreness for a few days is normal.
Over-the-counter pain medication is usually sufficient.
Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your permanent crown is placed.
Why Choose ESP Dental for Your Root Canal?
At ESP Dental in Phoenix, Arizona, our compassionate team uses advanced techniques to ensure effective, pain-free treatment. We make every step as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
