What is a Root Canal
A root canal, also called endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure used to repair and save a tooth that has become badly decayed or infected. During treatment, the damaged pulp inside the tooth is removed, the area is cleaned and disinfected, and then the tooth is filled and sealed to stop further infection. For anyone needing a root canal in San Diego, CA, this procedure helps preserve the natural tooth while restoring normal function and appearance. At Coastal Dental Arts, dentist in San Diego, CA can provide this treatment when necessary.
What to Expect
After your root canal treatment in San Diego, CA, the anesthesia may last for a few hours. Until the anesthesia has fully faded, please refrain from eating to avoid injuring your cheeks and lips.
Discomfort
You may experience discomfort or soreness in your gums for a few days or possibly even weeks after your root canal treatment. It is also possible your tooth might feel tender when you bite or chew. This soreness or tenderness does not reflect the outcome of the treatment and will alleviate as the surgery site heals.
After your operation and before the numbness wears off, you may take two tablets of over-the-counter Advil, Motrin or Tylenol. Do not take Aspirin. After the numbness wears off, you can take two tablets of the approved medications every six hours as needed to control the pain. If needed, you can take pain medication every three hours by alternating between Advil and Tylenol. Make sure not to take medications on an empty stomach.
If you are prescribed any antibiotic or anti-inflammatory medication, be sure to take it as directed in order to facilitate healing. If you are prescribed any pain medication, only take it as needed for severe discomfort and discontinue taking the pain medication when it is no longer needed or a few days after surgery. Dispose of any remaining pain medication.
Warm saltwater can be rinsed over the affected area to help deal with any pain. To mix the saltwater solution, combine one teaspoon of salt water with eight ounces of warm water.
If you start to experience swelling, fever, or severe pain, please contact us at Coastal Dental Arts.
Temporary Filling
During your procedure, our dentists will have placed a temporary filling in your tooth. Between your appointments, a thin layer of this filling may be chewed away, causing an unusual taste. Though some of the filling may be chewed away, if the entire filling comes out, please call us right away. It is important to keep the temporary filling in place until a permanent restoration can take its place.
Final Restorations
Soon after your root canal treatment, a crown or other permanent restoration will be placed. After surgery, your tooth will be fragile, and a permanent protection, such as a crown, will protect the tooth from fracturing, decay, contamination and infection. If the replacement is delayed, it could result in the loss or the tooth or a retreatment of the root canal.
We suggest you revisit Dr. David Chotiner about six to nine months after your procedure to review the surgery site and assess if it is healing properly. This service is provided at no additional cost.
If you experience any issues or if you have any questions, please call us at 619-786-3635 .