Root Canal Treatment Step-by-Step: What to Expect

Root canal treatment involves cleaning and filling the root canal of a tooth. It is often necessary when the tooth's pulp has died due to advanced decay, and it is the only way to save the tooth. This procedure often prevents the need for tooth extraction. Learn more about it here!

What is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure aimed at saving a tooth that has a dead pulp cavity due to advanced untreated decay. This condition allows bacteria to spread through the tooth tissues, causing irreversible damage. Root canal treatment may also be necessary for broken or damaged teeth. The most common symptom is severe pain that does not subside with pain relievers. During the treatment, the pulp content is removed, the root canal is disinfected and filled. This stops the inflammation and reduces the likelihood of reinfection, preventing further serious dental problems.

Step-by-Step Process of Root Canal Treatment

Most dental offices offer two types of procedures: traditional and microscopic root canal treatment. The main difference between the two is the tools used, thus the steps are mostly the same. Here’s what they involve:

1. Initial Assessment and Consultation: The first step always involves an assessment and consultation. Here, your dentist will diagnose and begin the necessary treatment.

2. Panoramic X-ray: For more thorough decision-making, a panoramic X-ray is usually necessary.

3. Local Anesthesia: The next step is local anesthesia, so you won't feel any pain throughout the procedure.

4. Accessing the Affected Tooth: To start the root canal treatment, the affected tooth needs to be exposed by drilling through the crown part to reach the root canals.

5. Identifying the Root Canals: Identifying the position of the root canals is a crucial step. Your dentist will determine their length and position, then remove their outer layers and any inflamed or dead tissue.

6. Chemical Cleaning of the Canal: The next step involves the chemical cleaning of the now-clean root canal. To completely eliminate inflammation, your dentist will use disinfectant and anti-inflammatory agents, which are delivered into the root canal using special needles and/or laser.

7. Temporary Filling: Following this, the dentist places a temporary filling in the tooth, which is removed after 7-12 days provided no further complications arise.

8. Final Filling: After a successful root canal treatment, the last step is placing a permanent filling. If uncomfortable pain reoccurs, the process of disinfection and temporary filling might need to be repeated until the symptoms permanently subside.

What to Expect After a Root Canal Treatment?

Post-root canal treatment, it’s important to differentiate between normal symptoms and those that require a return visit to the dental office.

Post-Treatment Tooth Pain

It’s normal to experience tooth pain after root canal treatment. As the anesthesia wears off, you might feel throbbing or pressure for a few days, which should subside over time. Try to avoid using the treated tooth during this period. If the pain does not decrease after a week and significant swelling occurs, it is advisable to consult your dentist again.

Temporary Swelling

Some swelling around the treated tooth within the first 1-2 days post-treatment is normal and not usually a concern. Significant swelling of the face is rare and may indicate that the inflammation has not been fully resolved or has recurred. In such cases, contact your dentist immediately.

Inflammation

If post-treatment pain cannot be relieved with pain medication, it may be necessary to re-disinfect the tooth to completely eliminate the inflammation.

Steps to Take If You Experience Pain After Root Canal Treatment

If you experience pain for a few days after root canal treatment, it's usually normal. You can effectively alleviate discomfort with a few home remedies. Likely, your dentist will also advise on pain management strategies, and it's safest to follow their recommendations.

Pain Relief with Ice

Applying ice can help mitigate pain following root canal treatment. Always wrap the ice pack in a cloth or towel to avoid direct contact with the skin.

Using Pain Relievers

Your dentist will likely inform you about possible pain relief medications and their dosage. Follow the medical advice strictly and do not exceed the recommended daily amount. If your symptoms do not improve despite medication, revisit your dentist.

When to Visit the Dentist

If you experience severe pain for several days post-treatment, significant swelling, fever, or if your temporary filling falls out, visit your dentist promptly.

Cost of Root Canal Treatment

The cost of root canal treatments varies. The total fee typically ranges from 60,000 to 100,000 HUF. At Fehérvári Dental, the initiation of root canal treatment for a single-canal tooth is priced at 27.000 HUF, medicated treatment of the root canal at 6,500 HUF per tooth, and the root filling at 26.500 HUF per tooth.

Common Questions and Answers

What is Microscopic Root Canal Treatment?

Microscopic root canal treatment is a modern dental procedure where root canals are magnified using a microscope, allowing for more precise treatment.

Is Pain Normal After Root Canal Treatment?

Pain and sensitivity after root canal treatment are normal. If discomfort persists or worsens over a few days, it is advisable to consult your dentist again.

What Can I Do for Pain After Root Canal Treatment?

To manage pain after root canal treatment, avoid using the affected tooth, chew on the opposite side, and steer clear of extremely cold, hot, or hard foods. If necessary, use pain relievers as prescribed, but do not exceed the recommended dosage.

Is Root Canal Treatment Possible Under a Crown?

Yes, root canal treatment is possible under a crown. It is recommended to use the dentist who made the crown for the root canal treatment as well. Ensure that the crown is no older than one year and does not significantly alter the tooth's anatomy.

What is Laser Root Canal Treatment?

Laser root canal treatment is a modern dental procedure where lasers are used to remove bacteria from the root canal.

Fehérvári Dental: Professional Dental Care in Budapest

Since 1997, we strive to provide your family with the highest level of comprehensive care, from the youngest to the oldest. Our specialists cover all areas of dentistry, allowing us to handle complex treatments requiring multiple dental specialists. Our team's professional and coordinated operation is evident throughout the entire care process, from specialist consultations to administrative tasks.

Our practice maintains high standards in design and equipment. Our three-level clinic features three modern treatment rooms and a diagnostic imaging area equipped with panoramic and intraoral X-rays, teleradiography, and CBCT. A spacious elevator connects the floors, accommodating those with mobility restrictions and families with strollers.

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