What is Root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that relieves pain caused by an infected or abscessed tooth. During the root canal process, the inflamed pulp is removed. The surfaces inside the tooth are then cleaned and disinfected, and a filling is placed to seal the space.
When is a root canal needed?
Root canal therapy is necessary when oral bacteria invade the pulp inside of your tooth. This usually happens when a cavity is left untreated for a long time. It can also occur if your tooth becomes cracked or damaged due to trauma.
In some cases, you may not know you have an infected tooth. However, many people notice certain symptoms. Signs you need a root canal include:
- Tooth pain that doesnʼt go away
- Loose tooth
- Sensitivity to heat and cold
- Tooth discoloration
- Pimple on the gums
- Pain when pressure is applied
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Swollen gums
- Swollen jaw
What happens during the root canal process?
Before beginning your root canal, your healthcare provider will take dental X-rays. This helps determine the extent of damage and ensures that root canal therapy is the appropriate treatment option. Here are the steps that will be completed during your root canal procedure:
1. Anesthesia. First, local anesthesia is given to numb the infected tooth and the surrounding gums.
2. Dental dam placement. Before beginning root canal treatment, a small rubber dam is placed over the area.
3. Access hole. Next, a small opening is made in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp.
4. Pulp removal. Tiny dental instruments are used to remove the nerves, blood vessels and tissues inside the tooth.
5. Shaping the canals. Once the pulp is removed, the pulp chamber and root canals are cleaned, disinfected and shaped.
6. Filling the canals. The empty canals are then filled with a flexible, rubbery dental material called gutta-percha.
7. Sealing the tooth. Next, a temporary dental filling is placed to seal the tooth and prevent bacteria from re-entering.