Few dental procedures carry as much unnecessary fear as a root canal. Most of that reputation is outdated. With modern techniques and proper anaesthesia, a root canal today is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. If your dentist has recommended one or you suspect you might need one, here is a straightforward breakdown of what the procedure involves and what to expect at DentMind CBD Dental Centre.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure used to save a tooth that has been severely damaged by decay or infection. Inside every tooth is a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When decay reaches the pulp or the tooth becomes infected, the pulp becomes inflamed and painful. A root canal removes the damaged pulp, cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent further infection.
The goal is to save the natural tooth rather than extract it. Keeping your natural teeth is almost always the better long term option for your overall dental health.
Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
Not every toothache means you need a root canal, but there are specific signs that suggest the pulp may be affected. These include persistent severe tooth pain especially when biting or applying pressure, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold that does not go away after the source is removed, a darkening of the tooth, swelling or tenderness in the surrounding gum, and a persistent pimple-like bump on the gum near the affected tooth.
If you are experiencing any of these, book an appointment as soon as possible. Waiting makes the infection worse and can put the tooth at greater risk of needing extraction.
What Happens During the Procedure?
The procedure typically takes one to two appointments depending on the severity of the infection.
At the first appointment the dentist will take an X-ray to assess the extent of the damage. A local anaesthetic is administered to numb the area completely. Once you are comfortable, the dentist creates a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. The infected pulp is carefully removed, the canals are cleaned and shaped, and the area is disinfected. A temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth between appointments.
At the second appointment the temporary filling is removed, the canals are filled with a permanent material, and the tooth is sealed. In most cases a crown is fitted over the tooth afterwards to restore its strength and protect it from further damage.
Does a Root Canal Hurt?
This is the question most patients ask first. The honest answer is that the procedure itself should not be painful. The anaesthetic numbs the area effectively and most patients report feeling pressure rather than pain during treatment. Any discomfort experienced is usually mild and manageable with over the counter pain medication for a day or two after the procedure.
The pain people associate with root canals is almost always the pain of the infection before treatment, not the treatment itself. Getting the procedure done actually brings relief.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Most patients return to their normal routine the same day or the following day. The treated tooth may feel sensitive for a few days, particularly to pressure. Avoiding hard foods on that side of the mouth while it settles is advisable. Your dentist will give you specific aftercare instructions at the end of the procedure.
With proper care, a tooth that has had a root canal can last a lifetime.
Book Your Appointment at DentMind CBD
If you have been putting off a dental visit because of tooth pain, do not wait any longer. The sooner the infection is treated the better the outcome. DentMind CBD Dental Centre is located at Victor House on Kimathi Street in Nairobi CBD and is ready to receive you.
DentMind CBD Dental Centre
Third Floor, Kimani Street
Victor House, Nairobi CBD
