Root Canal Treatment

When anyone hears the mention of a root canal, it is an instinctive reaction to cringe at the thought of getting the procedure done, followed by the pain. Truthfully, a root canal treatment can be painful, but it is an imperative procedure if you want to save your natural tooth. The stigma of pain discourages away those that genuinely need to get it done. However, the process can be comfortable and relieve pain to save the natural tooth.

The root canal treatment is constructed to eradicate harmful bacteria from the infected root. Through the root canal treatment, the infected pulp will be removed from the inside of the tooth and be thoroughly cleaned to disinfect, then filled and sealed.

Your dentist or endodontist will make sure that you are well informed about the procedure, so there is nothing to be worried about other than getting treated for the damaged/diseased tooth. So what happens during a root canal treatment? Let’s go through some helpful information and tips.

First, the dentist will prepare the area by numbing the area with anesthesia or numbing agents to the gums and tooth’s root. A dental dam will be placed in the mouth to isolate the infected tooth. Next, the dentist will be drilling the tooth into the root canals and pulp chamber. To disinfect the tooth, the dentist will use an antibacterial or antiseptic solution to eliminate bacteria. Once thoroughly cleaned, the canals will be shaped before inserting the filling. The filling, the gutta-percha, is a rubber-like material that fits comfortably against the walls, and with adhesive cement, it seals the canals to keep bacteria out. It is also essential to fill the whole to prevent bacteria from entering or reoccurring. Lastly, you will be given a prescription for antibiotics to kill the rest of the infection. You must follow all post-care instructions at home to avoid discomfort experiences. If the root canal was needed to the back tooth or had significant damage, that patient needs to come back for a crown.
What is inside the tooth?

• Inside the tooth underneath the white enamel (dentin) is the soft tissue known as the pulp.
• The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissues that help grow the root.
• A pulp is needed for the tooth to survive.
• You will be given anesthesia, so numb your tooth and minimize the pain.

There are a few symptoms one might have before needing a root canal, such as:

• Extreme pain when chewing or biting
• Inflammation, irritation, or sores on the gums
• Chipped or cracked tooth
• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Tender or swollen gums
• Deep decay of the tooth
• Darkening of the gums

If you need a root canal, it is vital to act immediately to save the tooth. Do not wait or prolong the issue before you lose the tooth entirely. The sooner you take care of the pain, the sooner you will be back to your everyday daily living.