Root Canal
A root canal is a dental procedure that involves the removal of the pulp, or the innermost soft tissue, of a tooth. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. Once the pulp is removed, the space inside the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and sealed. The term “root canal” is also commonly used to refer to the hollow space within the root of a tooth.
Here are the key steps involved in a root canal procedure:
1. Diagnosis: The need for a root canal is typically determined through a dental examination, X-rays, and assessment of symptoms such as severe toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, swelling, or abscess formation.
2. Anesthesia: Before the procedure begins, the area around the affected tooth is numbed using local anesthesia to ensure the patient is comfortable and does not feel pain during the treatment.
3. Access Opening: The dentist creates an opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals.
4. Removal of Pulp: The infected or inflamed pulp is carefully removed from the tooth’s interior using specialized instruments.
5. Cleaning and Shaping: The inside of the tooth and its root canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected to remove any remaining bacteria and debris.
6. Filling: The cleaned space is then filled with a biocompatible material, usually a rubber-like substance called gutta-percha, to seal the canals and prevent further infection.
7. Sealing the Access Opening: The access opening created at the beginning of the procedure is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling.
8. Restoration: In most cases, a tooth that has undergone a root canal will need further restoration. This may involve the placement of a dental crown to protect the tooth and restore its function and appearance.
Root canals are performed to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted due to infection or irreversible damage to the pulp. The procedure helps alleviate pain, eliminate infection, and preserve the natural tooth structure.
Feel free to get in contact with us to get personalized treatment plan and price.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
After a root canal, the treated tooth is typically restored with a dental crown to protect and strengthen it. Patients are advised to follow post-procedure care instructions provided by their dentist.
The duration of a root canal procedure can vary depending on factors such as the tooth’s location and complexity. In general, a root canal can be completed in one or two appointments.
Modern dental techniques and anesthesia make root canal procedures relatively comfortable. Patients may experience some discomfort or soreness after the procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Symptoms that may indicate the need for a root canal include severe toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, swelling, tenderness, or the presence of a pimple-like bump on the gums.
A root canal is typically recommended when the pulp of a tooth becomes infected, inflamed, or damaged due to factors such as deep decay, repeated dental procedures, or trauma.
