What to Know Before Your Root Canal Procedure

Root canals get a bad reputation. The truth is, they’re designed to save your natural teeth and relieve pain. Modern endodontic techniques make the procedure safe, effective, and far less painful than most people expect. By knowing exactly what happens before, during, and after your root canal, you can walk in informed and leave relieved.

What Is a Root Canal and Why You Might Need One

A root canal is a dental procedure that treats compromised tooth pulp. The pulp is the part of the tooth at the center. It contains the tooth’s blood vessels and nerves. Sometimes the pulp can become infected or damaged. A root canal removes the compromised pulp and cleans the inside of the tooth. This relieves the common symptoms of pain, abscess, and deep tooth decay. 

Reasons to Opt for a Root Canal vs Extraction

There are several benefits to receiving a root canal instead of simply removing the tooth. A root canal allows you to keep the natural tooth, helping to avoid further jaw or tooth alignment issues. Root canals also have a high long-term success rate when properly done. Compared to extraction followed by implant or bridge, a root canal is more cost-effective. 

What to Expect During the Procedure

Depending on the treatment, a root canal can be a part of one or two office visits. On the day of the root canal procedure, the dentist will administer a numbing agent to the general area of the mouth. Once numb, the dentist will remove the infected pulp and disinfect the opened channels inside the tooth. The open areas are then filled with gutta-percha, a material designed to seal the tooth, give it strength, and prevent reinfection. In the majority of cases, the final step is to finish the root canal by applying a crown to the tooth. 

Pain and Recovery

There is a misconception that root canals are painful. However, modern local anesthetics ensure the patient does not experience pain during the procedure. The anesthetic will wear off after the procedure, and the patient may experience mild soreness. Most patients return to normal quickly.

Aftercare Tips

Proper aftercare is essential for the long-term success of a root canal. Maintain proper oral hygiene while following the dentist’s instructions. Attend the recommended follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process. 

Book Your Root Canal Procedure

A root canal doesn’t have to be stressful. With proper preparation, modern anesthesia, and the skilled care of an experienced endodontist, you can face the procedure with confidence. Knowing what to expect helps reduce anxiety and sets you up for a healthy, pain-free recovery.

Ready to protect your smile? Contact Geaux Endo to book your appointment.