Root canal treatment is a common general dentistry procedure. Although some worry that root canal removal may cause discomfort, according to a study available through the American Association of Endodontists, patients who undergo root canal removal tend to experience a reduction in pain as a result of treatment, rather than an increase in pain.
That said, root canal therapy could cause discomfort during treatment if dentists didn’t use any painkilling tools and techniques. Thus, it’s common for a dentist to apply some form of anesthetic when treating patients.
What is Root Canal Removal?
It may prove valuable to learn some more about root canal treatment and its benefits before learning about the detox process. When decay or damage affects the inner pulp of a tooth, root canal therapy is often necessary to preserve the tooth and prevent the further spread of decay. Root canal therapy involves:
- Removing the pulp from the affected tooth
- Sterilizing the nerves to kill any remaining bacteria
- Filling the nerve chamber
- Fitting the tooth with a dental crown that will resemble the appearance of a healthy, natural tooth
Don’t postpone treatment if your dentist believes you need root canal removal. If left untreated, significant dental decay could lead to such problems as:
- Loss of a tooth
- Gum disease
- Painful abscess
- Increased risk of stroke, heart attack, and similar health issues
Detoxing After Root Canal Removal: What You Need to Know
The process of detoxing from the anesthesia a dentist provides during root canal procedure can vary from one patient to another. Because a dentist may choose different drugs and different dosages depending on such factors as a patient’s age, weight, and more, the amount of time it takes for the drugs to leave a patient’s system isn’t necessarily consistent.
Regardless, a dentist will almost certainly use enough anesthesia that it would be unsafe for a patient to attempt to drive themselves home after undergoing root canal removal. Exercise caution and have a friend or family member drive you home. Use public transportation, call a cab, or request an Uber or Lyft if no one is available to drive you to and from your appointment.
The amount of anesthesia a dentist uses will also likely interfere with your ability to perform work-related tasks. As such, you should not plan on returning to work the day of your procedure. If possible, try to take a couple of days off from work so you can focus on your recovery.
The drugs should wear off within a few hours of treatment. However, you may need additional time to rest as you heal from the procedure. You might also experience some minor discomfort as the anesthetic wears off.
Ask a Dentist for More Information
The best source of information on how to heal and detox after root canal removal is your dentist. Although the information here has hopefully been useful, your dentist can provide more specific answers to questions about your treatment.
Learn About Root Canal Removal in Morganville, NJ
Do you believe you may need root canal treatment? If so, call Champagne Smiles at 732-972-0918 to request an appointment today.