Before we get into a thorough discussion regarding root canal, it is important to understand that every paining tooth does not require root canal. So, let us know who can opt and benefit from a root canal treatment.

Do you need a root canal?

Following are some of the scenarios where root canal can bring about the much needed relief you are seeking for. A patient who visits a dentist with tooth pain will be examined for the following questions. Getting a YES in most of these cases calls for a root canal.

• If you have a constant and lasting pain
• If you are sensitive to hot and cold, resulting in a lingering pain for hours
• If you are having a severe pain while lying down, or standing up from a seated position or perhaps while walking fast or running
• If you suddenly feel severe pain even when you make no change in posture
• If your gums show fistula formation. Fistula is a formation of pus on gums that appear white or yellow in color very similar to a pimple.
• If the pain proceeds to other parts such as cheek, surrounding teeth, ears etc
  
  

All of these conditions suggest that the nerves of the infected tooth are vigorously damaged, so much that the tooth is now dead and you either remove it or preserve it through a root canal.

It must also be noted that your doctor will take multiple x-rays to know if you are eligible for the procedure. These x-rays are easy and takes a couple of seconds or so. An x-ray is the most informative source and if your doctor suggests a root canal after an x-ray you need to get it done straight away!

What is the Root Canal Procedure like?

Root canal treatment saves or preserves your tooth even when it is damaged and dead. The aim of the procedure is to get deep inside the tooth and then cleaning it. The procedure involves the following steps:

An anesthesia is used to numb the area before the procedure. It is only now that you feel slight pain and definitely it is bearable.
An opening is created within the crown of your tooth. This opening makes way deep within tooth canal to reach the infected tissue that needs to be removed.
Special tools and apparatus eliminate infected pulp and clean the canal 
The canal is now rebuilt and then flushed to remove any debris
The opening leading to canal is now closed and protected using special filling materials
This filling is then replaced with an artificial crown, also known as cap

Root canal procedures require a number of seatings. The above procedure is a brief explanation and a doctor may need a number of additional steps based on your condition. Find the cost and procedure of root canal treatment in India here.

Taking care of your Root Canal Tooth:

Just after the procedure, remember that your tooth is still fragile and prone to fracture. You need to strictly avoid using the tooth for biting or eating any hard food items. Vigorous brushing and rinsing that can hurt also needs to be avoided until you get your cap fitted Finally, maintaining good oral hygiene and caring for your tooth is of utmost importance. Do you need to worry if your root canal tooth pains after procedure?

Pain after root canal is not very uncommon. Many people do experience a bit of pain and tenderness post procedure. The reason is because, as the procedure involves a number of days for completion, some infection due to liquid squeezing into the tooth while it is still under temporary filling may occur. This can lead to mild infection and pain if not diagnosed prior to permanent filling. However, this is not something very grave and can be eliminated with simple antibiotics.

Today, Indian oral health has grown and advanced to a level where complex procedures are performed without causing much pain and discomfort. So, now that you have got a brief understanding of the entire procedure, opting for it when you need it the most will not be that difficult, isn't it?!