When you experience tooth decay, pain, or even an infection, getting a root canal can be a viable option to save the tooth. If you've been told that you need a root canal to fix your dental problem, you most likely have questions about the entire process. Before you go into the dentist's office for your root canal, you need to know the following 4 things about the process:

Treating Infections

If you are having a root canal done due to an infection, your dentist will prescribe you an antibiotic that you need to take before you go in for surgery. These antibiotics are typically for one week only, and involve taking a pill every day until your surgery date. The goal is to get rid of the infection entirely, or diminish how bad the infection is.

If you have an allergy to antibiotics, make sure to let your dentist know so that there are not any complications that could delay your root canal procedure from being performed.

Options For Repairing The Tooth

After the root canal portion of the procedure is performed, your dentist will need to repair the tooth with either a cap, crown, or filling. This can happen on the very same day you get your root canal, or you can come back on a different day to have it done.

It's important to speak with your dentist about how the tooth will be repaired, that way there are no surprises after the surgery. Different repair methods also have different costs associated with them, with some being more expensive than others. Your dentist will help you decide on a repair procedure that is comfortable, looks good, and fits within your budget.

Post-Surgery Complications

While getting a root canal will remove any infected pulp within the tooth to fix it, there may be complications after the surgery. One potential problem is that it is possible for infection to spread to other teeth if you did not catch it early enough.

The tooth will also be much more fragile, and has a higher chance of breaking than a healthy tooth. This may make you consider getting the tooth extracted, and getting a dental implant or bridge instead.

Post-Surgery Care

Your dentist will prescribe you medication to take for any pain, and potentially another antibiotic if the infection has not entirely gone away. If pain persists several days after the surgery, contact your dentist to have the tooth inspected for problems.

By being informed about your root canal surgery, you will be well prepared for the possible outcomes that may occur. 

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