General dentists and endodonists perform root canals.
Infected or damaged teeth can sometimes be saved through a root canal. A tooth contains soft tissue called pulp. Canals run down from the pulp to the root. When the pulp becomes damaged, bacteria can affect the root, causing pain and damage to the tooth, gum and even the bone. A root canal cleans out any infection and seals the tooth to prevent further damage. The procedure itself, however, carries risks.
Abscess
A buildup of bacteria in the tooth's tissue may cause swelling, called an abscess. An abscess indicates that the infection was not completely cleared from the tooth. Although most dentists prescribe antibiotics after a root canal to kill bacteria, prescriptions are not always 100 percent effective. An abscess causes severe pain, bad taste in the mouth, red and swollen gums and fever. Your dentist may prescribe a different antibiotic, perform an additional root canal or pull the tooth. Over-the-counter pain relievers and warm salt water gargles may ease the pain.
Tooth Loss
Although the goal of a root canal is to save the tooth, the procedure isn't foolproof. If the root dies or the infection is particularly aggressive or widespread, pulling the troublesome tooth is the best way to remove the bacteria and avoid further complications. Current technology makes it easier for dentists to examine and clean canals, but some teeth have several canals, which may be curved and so difficult to find or completely clean during the procedure.
Allergy
Some patients react badly to the anesthetic for the procedure. Although less common using today's products, some patients have allergic reactions. A mild reaction to a local anesthetic results in hives, an itchy rash on the skin; or asthma symptoms, difficulty catching your breath. An extreme reaction causes anaphylactic shock characterized by swollen body tissues swelling, circulation collapse and acute respiratory distress. Patients who know they have allergies to sulfites should discuss alternative anesthetics with the dentist before the procedure.
Nerve Damage
Another possible effect of root canal is dental nerve damage. Trauma during the procedure, pressure from the sealant and neurotoxic effects from chemicals used during the root canal or from the sealant may damage the nerves. Patients who experience nerve difficulties after surgery recover well if the dentist catches the problem early. Patients should vigilantly monitor the area for pain or numbness, especially within the 72-hour period following surgery, and contact the dental professional with any concerns.
Cosmetics
A post-operative tooth is more brittle than others since much of the pulp within was removed. Patients should take special care to avoid damaging the tooth after a root canal. The dentist may need to add supporting material during the surgery, but the tooth will still be more fragile than others.
Discoloration of the tooth is common, as well. Graying does not typically pose any health threat. Dentists may be able to reduce the discoloration through bleaching for cosmetic reasons.
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