If your dentist recommends root canal therapy, you might feel anxious—but there’s no need to worry. At Lamesa Dental, we perform this common procedure to save your natural tooth and relieve pain. Understanding what to expect can help ease any concerns and fully prepare you for your appointment.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy treats infection or inflammation inside your tooth’s pulp—the soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels. When decay, cracks, or trauma create openings, bacteria enter and can infect the pulp, causing severe pain and potentially spreading to the surrounding bone without treatment.
During the procedure, your dentist removes the infected pulp, thoroughly cleans the root canals, and seals the tooth to prevent future infection. This allows you to keep your natural tooth rather than requiring an extraction.
Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
Common symptoms that indicate you may need root canal therapy include:
- Persistent toothache or throbbing pain
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
- Swelling or tenderness in nearby gums
- Discoloration or darkening of the tooth
- A small bump on the gums near the affected tooth
Sometimes, an infection may not produce noticeable symptoms but will appear on an X-ray during your dental exam.
Preparing for Your Appointment
Root canal therapy requires minimal preparation, but these simple steps can help your visit go smoothly:
Eat beforehand: Since your mouth will be numb for several hours after the procedure, have a good meal before your appointment.
Avoid tobacco and alcohol: These substances can interfere with anesthetics and increase inflammation, so it’s best to avoid them before your visit.
Arrange transportation: If you’re receiving sedation beyond local anesthesia, plan for someone to drive you home.
Get plenty of rest: Your body heals better when well-rested, so aim for a full night’s sleep before and after your procedure.
What to Expect During Treatment
The root canal procedure typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. Your Lamesa Dental team will ensure you’re comfortable throughout:
- Numbing: We administer local anesthesia to completely numb the tooth and surrounding area. You may feel a slight pinch, but the numbness takes effect quickly.
- Isolation: We place a small rubber sheet called a dental dam over the tooth to keep it clean and dry during the procedure.
- Cleaning: Your dentist creates a small opening in the tooth to access the infected pulp, removes it, and cleans the root canals thoroughly.
- Filling and sealing: We fill the cleaned canals with a biocompatible material and seal them to prevent future infection.
- Temporary restoration: We place a temporary filling to protect the tooth until we can install your permanent restoration (usually a crown).
After Your Root Canal
Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can return to normal activities the same day. Here’s what to expect:
- Slight sensitivity or tenderness for a few days
- Relief from the pain that brought you in
- Numbness that wears off within a few hours
To promote healing, stick to soft foods like yogurt, eggs, and fish for the first day or two. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until your dentist places the permanent crown. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any minor discomfort.
Why Choose Lamesa Dental?
At Lamesa Dental, Dr. Preet Sandhu and our experienced team use modern technology and gentle techniques to make your root canal as comfortable as possible. We’re committed to saving your natural teeth and helping you maintain optimal oral health.
Located at 311 N Dallas Ave C, Lamesa, TX 79331, we offer same-day appointments for dental emergencies whenever possible. Don’t let tooth pain disrupt your life—call us at 806-870-5555 to schedule your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is root canal therapy painful?
A: Today’s root canal procedures are no more uncomfortable than getting a standard filling. Local anesthesia numbs the area completely, so you shouldn’t feel pain during treatment. Most discomfort actually occurs before the procedure when the tooth is infected—once completed, patients typically experience significant relief. Any mild soreness afterward can be managed easily with over-the-counter pain medication.
Q: How long does recovery take after a root canal?
A: Most patients recover within less than a week. You can typically return to your normal routine the same day, though you should avoid eating until the numbness wears off. Some sensitivity or mild discomfort may linger for a few days, but this signals your tooth is healing normally. If you experience significant pain lasting more than a few days, contact Lamesa Dental right away. Following aftercare instructions—eating soft foods, maintaining good oral hygiene, and avoiding the treated tooth until your dentist places the crown—helps ensure a smooth recovery.
