Root canals are easy and pain-free with Dr. Taejoon Park at Dental Park. Many patients often feel nervous about getting root canal treatment, but modern dentistry allows us to streamline the process comfortably.
Here’s what to expect during your root canal appointment.
Before the Root Canal
Before your root canal treatment, Dr. Park will discuss the entire process in detail so you know what to expect. Dr. Park understands that every patient is different, and your smile is unique and requires personalized care. When it comes to preparing for your root canal, we recommend the following:
- Take medications as prescribed, including antibiotics or anti-inflammatories.
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol several days before the appointment, which delays healing.
- Eat a healthy meal before your appointment since you may not be able to eat afterward until the anesthesia wears off.
During the Root Canal
Dr. Park starts by taking x-rays of your tooth to determine the extent of the damage. Dr. Park then ensures you are relaxed and comfortable. He then administers a local anesthetic to numb the area so you don’t experience pain or discomfort. Next, he isolates the tooth using a rubber dam and creates a small access hole in the tooth through which he removes the damaged pulp.
Once he removes the infected material, he cleans and shapes the tooth’s root canals. Dr. Park then fills the canals with a flexible putty-like substance called gutta-percha. Finally, he seals the tooth with a dental crown or filling.
On average, a root canal takes 30 to 60 minutes, though some cases may require longer or even two appointments.
After the Root Canal
Dr. Park will provide detailed instructions for aftercare and recovery, but here are some general tips:
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol until cleared by your dentist.
- Avoid eating or chewing sticky foods, especially gum.
- Avoid eating hard or crunchy foods or objects, like ice.
- Chew on only one side of your mouth, if possible.
Call Us for a Gentle Root Canal in Dedham
Dental Park can gently treat root canal infections with modern technology and techniques. Call us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Park and learn what’s possible for your oral health!