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ROOT CANAL TREATMENT
What is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to treat infection at the center of a tooth (the root canal system). It involves removing the damaged area of the tooth (the pulp), cleaning and disinfecting it, and then filling and sealing it. The common causes of pulp damage include decay, a cracked tooth, or injury. This treatment saves a tooth that might otherwise need to be removed completely.
Who needs Root Canal Treatment?
Individuals who experience severe tooth pain while chewing, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, discoloration of the tooth, swollen gums, or a persistent pimple on the gums may need root canal treatment. These symptoms may indicate that the pulp within the tooth is infected or inflamed and requires treatment.
What are the Benefits?
The benefits of root canal treatment include:
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Elimination of infection and protection from future microbial invasion.
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Preservation of the natural tooth, avoiding the need for extraction and replacement with artificial teeth.
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Relief from pain and discomfort associated with the infected or inflamed pulp.
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Restoration of normal biting force and sensation, and maintenance of natural appearance.
What are the Types?
The types of root canal treatment vary based on the complexity of the root structure and the required restoration:
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Standard root canal therapy for the treatment of the pulp of the tooth.
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Apicoectomy or root-end resection when the infection persists in the bony area around the end of the tooth after a root canal procedure.
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Internal tooth bleaching for teeth that have become discolored due to infection of the pulp.
What is the Procedure?
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The root canal procedure involves several steps:
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The dentist administers local anesthesia to numb the area.
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A small protective sheet called a “dental dam” is placed to isolate the tooth and keep it clean and free of saliva during the treatment.
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An opening is made in the crown of the tooth to clean out the infected or inflamed pulp from the pulp chamber and root canals.
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After cleaning and disinfecting, the root canals are filled and sealed with a biocompatible material.
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A filling is placed to close the opening in the tooth’s crown, followed by a crown or other restoration to protect and restore it to full function.
FAQ
1. Is root canal treatment painful?
Modern techniques and anesthesia make the procedure as painless as possible.
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2. How long does the treatment take?
It usually requires one or two visits to complete, depending on the condition of your tooth.
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3. How successful is root canal treatment?
It is highly successful; many root canal-treated teeth last a lifetime.
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4. Will the tooth need special care afterward?
Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are necessary to prolong the life of the treated tooth.
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5. Can all teeth be treated with a root canal?
Most teeth can undergo root canal treatment successfully, but in some cases, a tooth may be too damaged or decayed to be saved.