If you’ve been dealing with a throbbing toothache, facial swelling, bad breath, and a fever, the chances are high that you might need a root canal. At Summit Dental Group, your Boise dentist offers professional and affordable root canal therapy at our downtown office. That’s why we’d like to provide you with the following information about root canals and what you can expect with this restorative treatment.
When decay or infection spreads to the root of a tooth, it’s essential to save as much healthy tissue as possible to reduce the risk of losing it completely. A root canal treatment helps to save a natural tooth by removing any infected or damaged tissue, allowing it to heal and regrow healthy tissues.
During a root canal treatment, your Boise dentist will carefully numb the area around your tooth to prevent you from feeling any pain or discomfort. He will then drill a small hole in your tooth and examine the pulp (the soft tissue inside a tooth). He will then remove any infected tissues and replace it with a material called gutta percha. Last but not least, the area will be sealed with an inlay, overlay, or crown, depending on what is needed.
When your root canal is complete, it’s important to rest and heal after treatment. When the anesthetic wears off, you could experience a little swelling and discomfort. To relieve this, you can use a cool washcloth or ice bag to help alleviate the pain. Your Boise dentist will also suggest using an over-the-counter painkiller like Tylenol or Ibuprofen. He may also write you a prescription for an antibiotic to prevent further infection.
Additionally, you should eat soft foods like mashed potatoes and scrambled eggs for the first few days after treatment. It’s also important not to smoke or use straws, which can aggravate the root canal site. When it comes to brushing and flossing your teeth, you should be extra careful around the area treated until fully healed. This can take a week or two before you can resume your normal oral care routine.
If you’re suffering from a toothache or infection, contact Summit Dental Group right away. Our entire staff is happy and ready to help you get the relief you need to get your oral health back on track. Contact our downtown office by filling out our online form or give us a call at (208) 314-2275 today.
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