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Pain and Root Canals: What You Should Know

A root canal is one of the most effective treatments for saving a natural tooth and preserving oral health. While they have a negative reputation for being painful, this is no longer the case with modern pain management techniques. General dentists prioritize patient comfort during and after a root canal. Understanding the root canal process and what to expect afterward can help reduce worry and support a healthy recovery.

The root canal procedure

A root canal removes the infected pulp tissue from inside the tooth. The pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, can become inflamed or infected due to deep cavities, cracks, repeated dental procedures, or dental trauma. Once this occurs, the pulp cannot heal on its own and must be removed to prevent further complications. Thus, a general dentist will use dental X-rays to identify a deep infection and confirm the need for a root canal.

To begin root canal therapy, the dentist applies local anesthesia to numb the area, ensuring the procedure is as comfortable as possible. Once the area is fully numb, they will make a small opening in the tooth to reach its pulp chamber and root canals. Next, the dentist removes the infected pulp and cleans, shapes, and fills the tooth. The dental team then covers the opening with a temporary or permanent filling. The dentist will likely recommend a dental crown to restore the tooth’s full function and appearance.

Root canals and pain

Root canals are constantly associated with pain. However, the procedure itself is usually no more uncomfortable than receiving a dental filling or crown. The pain that patients often attribute to root canals typically stems from the infection present before treatment, not the procedure itself. Once the dentist removes the affected tissue and disinfects the canal, the patient typically feels immediate relief from the discomfort they were feeling before the procedure.

General dentists also rely on advanced tools and techniques that prioritize comfort throughout root canal therapy, making the experience more manageable. As previously mentioned, this can involve the use of local anesthesia to numb the area. It is normal to feel slight pressure or vibrations as the dentist completes the procedure, but they should not experience sharp pain.

Managing pain after a root canal

Mild sensitivity or discomfort is common after root canal therapy and can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. In order to protect the tooth, patients should avoid chewing on the treated side until the dentist places the permanent restoration. Additionally, gentle brushing, salt water rinses, and avoiding hard foods support healing and reduce irritation. If the dentist prescribes antibiotics, the patient will need to complete the full course to prevent postoperative infection and promote a smooth recovery.

Root canals make for a more comfortable smile

Although root canals have a poor reputation for being painful, they relieve pain in the long run. This is because once the inflamed or infected tissue is removed, the pressure, swelling, and sensitivity that caused the discomfort are resolved. Learn more in an appointment with the Smile Craft Dental team at our Redwood City office.

Request an appointment here: https://www.mysmilecraft.com or call Smile Craft Dental at (650) 241-0284 for an appointment in our Downey office.

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General Dentistry Repair Options for a Cracked Tooth

In general dentistry, cracked teeth are, unfortunately, a common problem that requires attention. Thankfully, modern-day dentistry has created a few different options that can solve the problem of a cracked tooth. In most situations, a general dentist can salvage a cracked tooth; however, it is important to know that there are a few factors that play a role in what type of treatment will be performed.

How cracked teeth are repaired in general dentistry

Outlined below are a few of the most common ways that a general dentist may repair a cracked tooth. This information can be helpful to review as it is good to know what types of treatment may be required.

Size-dependent

When it comes to a cracked tooth, general dentists typically try to perform a restoration as opposed to extraction and replacement. However, what often gets overlooked is that the type of treatment relies heavily on the size and density of the crack itself.

If a crack is too deep into the tooth, the general dentist may recommend more aggressive treatment. On the flip side, if it is minor and the health of the tooth is not at risk, a minor treatment may do the job. Upon evaluating the crack and all angles of the tooth, the general dentist will decide what restoration option is most suitable.

The options

When it comes to a small tooth crack in general dentistry, the best option may be something as simple as dental bonding if it is a front tooth. Dental bonding is a simple procedure that does not involve any pain. The crack is covered with a resin material that seals the tooth from continuing to break.

If a molar is cracked, and if it is small, an inlay, onlay, or dental crown might be best. These procedures do require multiple appointments; however, when a molar is cracked, there is more of a risk as these teeth are responsible for chewing and grinding food.

Other things to know

In general dentistry, the goal is to save the tooth; however, as stated earlier, if the crack is too severe, an extraction may be required. A cracked tooth that cannot be saved may lead to infection or irritation of the surrounding area. The entire tooth may have to be replaced. Of course, general dentists will only advise undergoing a tooth extraction and replacement as a last resort. However, in some major situations, these steps are necessary.

Learn more today

It is important to remember that in general dentistry, a cracked tooth has to be evaluated first. As soon as an accident occurs that results in a crack or damage to a tooth, it is necessary to visit a general dentist. The dentist will examine the tooth to determine what type of treatment is best. To find out more about cracked teeth and how they are addressed in general dentistry, reach out to our Redwood City office today.

Request an appointment here: https://www.mysmilecraft.com or call Smile Craft Dental at (650) 241-0284 for an appointment in our Redwood City office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Redwood City, CA.

Do Oral Appliances Work for Sleep Apnea?

Oral appliances are usually recommended as an alternative to CPAP for sleep apnea treatment. These devices are custom made for patients by the general dentist using the mouth’s impressions. Oral appliances are not only effective for sleep apnea, but they are also sometimes good for stopping snoring.

How oral appliances for sleep apnea work

Most oral devices work by shifting the jaw forward. These are called mandibular advancement devices or jaw advancing devices and increase the size of the air passages, consequently reducing air resistance or inhibitions that cause sleep apnea and snoring. Some of these devices allow the patient to modify the extent to which the jaw is moved for comfort and functionality.

Another type of sleep apnea oral appliance is the tongue-retaining device. This consists of a splint that holds the tongue in position to ensure that the air passage stays open throughout sleep. Although anti-snoring devices work similarly, patients suffering from sleep apnea need to use a device designed specifically for their condition.

How effective are oral appliances for sleep apnea?

Although CPAP is the most popular treatment option, oral appliances are quickly becoming more common, as research proves their efficiency in treating mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea and snoring. Oral devices are typically used as a replacement for sleep apnea surgery and CPAP machines because they are more cost-effective and less invasive. The device can even be recommended in conjunction with a weight loss program for overweight patients.

While not all patients can get sleep apnea mouthpieces, as they are typically more effective for mild to moderate cases, they might also be usable for patients with severe sleep apnea who have trouble tolerating CPAP machines. It is crucial for patients to work with their dentist to know if the treatment would be suitable for them.

After the patient gets the oral device, the dental professional may request a sleep study to determine the treatment’s efficiency. Follow-up care is important to ensure that the patient is getting the appropriate treatment.

Benefits of oral appliances

By using the oral devices consistently and according to the dentist’s guidance, patients can enjoy the benefits of the treatment for sleep apnea. Most people start to notice improvements in their sleep apnea after the first night of use. Since the use of sleep apnea devices is easy and comfortable, there is a better compliance rate with the device than CPAP machines. Other benefits of oral appliances include:

Convenience: The devices are compact and easy to carry
Discreet: The mouthpiece stays in the mouth and is invisible to others
Less hassle: Unlike CPAP devices, oral appliances do not need electricity and therefore, do not need to be plugged into a wall to work, making them more comfortable and cheaper to use

Get an oral appliance from the dentist

The first step to take for any sleep apnea treatment is speaking with the general dentist. Be sure to discuss your symptoms when you visit the dental office. You might need to undergo a sleep study, and if you get a diagnosis for sleep apnea, the dental professional will discuss treatment options, including oral appliances.