Root Canal Treatment

Overview of root canal treatment

  • Root canal treatment is done to fix and save a tooth that’s damaged or infected.
  • During the procedure, the root canals are cleaned, disinfected, and sealed.
  • Thanks to modern techniques, it’s mostly painless now.
  • If you don’t want a root canal, the alternatives are:
    • Removing the tooth entirely.
    • Replacing it with options like an implant, a bridge, or even a denture.
 

Why you may need a root canal

  • You might need a root canal if the soft core of your tooth, called dental pulp, gets damaged or infected.
  • This can happen because of cracks, deep cavities, or injuries.
  • If it’s left untreated, it can cause more serious issues like infections, abscesses, bone loss, or even tooth loss.
  • Symptoms to watch out for include:
    • Toothache
    • Swelling in the gums
    • Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
    • Swelling in the face
    • A visible hole in the tooth

Getting started on root canal treatment

  • A root canal is typically done by an endodontist or general dentist, and it usually takes one or two visits.
  • X-rays are used to check the damage to your tooth.
  • To make sure you’re comfortable, local anesthesia is given, so the procedure is painless.
  • A dental dam is placed around the tooth to keep it clean and free from saliva.
  • The decayed part of the tooth is removed, and an opening is made so the dentist can access and remove the infected pulp.
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Clearing up root canal infection

  • After the infected pulp is removed, the pulp chamber and root canals are cleaned, reshaped, and dried.
  • Sometimes, medication is used to clear any remaining infection, and if the infection has spread, antibiotics might be prescribed.
  • A temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth until it’s fully restored.
  • It’s important to avoid chewing on the tooth until the treatment is complete.

Filling the root canals

  • Once the tooth is cleaned and dried, it’s time to fill the empty pulp chamber and root canals.
  • You might not need any extra anesthesia for this step.
  • If you had a temporary filling, it will be removed so the dentist can access the inside of the tooth.
  • A special sealer paste and rubber compound are used to fill the tooth, and then a dental filling is placed to protect the root canals from saliva.

Final stage of a root canal

  • The final step of a root canal is restoring the tooth.
  • Since the tooth is usually weakened after the procedure, a crown is placed to protect it and help it function properly again.
  • Crowns can be made from materials like gold, porcelain, or porcelain fused to metal, and they can be tinted to match the color of your natural teeth.
  • If a lot of the tooth structure is missing, a metal post might be added to provide extra support.
  • Be sure to discuss the best restoration options with your dentist.
 

After your root canal

  • After a root canal, your tooth with the crown should function just like a natural tooth and look great too.
  • With good oral hygiene, it can last for a lifetime.
  • A little mild sensitivity is normal for a few days, and you can manage it with over-the-counter pain relief.
  • If the pain or pressure continues, it’s important to consult your dentist.