Root Canal Therapy: Procedure, Recovery, & Myths

Ever been told you need a root canal and felt a shiver run down your spine? Dr. Serrano at Alma Dental Care is here to clear up any confusion and ease your worries about this common dental procedure.

What is Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy is a treatment designed to save a tooth that’s badly infected or decayed. During the procedure, Dr. Serrano removes the damaged pulp inside the tooth, cleans and disinfects the area, and then fills and seals it. This helps eliminate pain and prevents further infection, ultimately saving your tooth.

The Procedure

Contrary to popular belief, root canal therapy is relatively straightforward and not much different from having a cavity filled. Firstly, Dr. Serrano uses local anesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure. After numbing the area, she’ll make a small opening in the tooth to access the pulp. Using specialized tools, she’ll remove the infected tissue, clean the canal, and then fill it with a biocompatible material. The tooth is then sealed, and a crown is often placed on top to restore its strength and function.

Recovery Process

Post-procedure, you might experience some mild discomfort, but it’s typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. In fact, most patients return to their normal activities the next day. Dr. Serrano will provide specific aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending follow-up appointments are key to the long-term success of your root canal.

Myths Debunked

There are plenty of myths surrounding root canal therapy, and it’s time to set the record straight. Here are a few common misconceptions:

Myth: Root canals are extremely painful.

Fact: Modern techniques and anesthesia make the procedure no more painful than getting a filling.

Myth: It’s better to pull a tooth than have a root canal.

Fact: Saving your natural tooth with a root canal is often the best option, as it maintains your bite and jaw structure.

Myth: Root canals cause illness.

Fact: This is an outdated myth. Root canal therapy is safe and helps eliminate infection from the mouth.

Why Alma Dental Care?

At Alma Dental Care in Petaluma, Dr. Serrano and her team are committed to providing compassionate, expert care. They use the latest technology and techniques to ensure your root canal procedure is as comfortable and effective as possible.

Need more info or ready to book an appointment? Contact Dr. Serrano at Alma Dental Care today and take the first step towards a pain-free smile!

Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0

Categorised in: Root Canal Therapy