The benefits of implant treatment are undeniable, but for some, a root canal procedure may be necessary. A root canal is a dental procedure that treats infected or inflamed pulp within the tooth, with the goal of saving the tooth and preventing further damage.
Before the Procedure
Before the root canal procedure, your dentist will conduct an examination to assess the extent of the damage and determine whether the tooth is a suitable candidate for a root canal. During this process, your dentist will also take x-rays to evaluate the affected tooth's shape and to identify canals the dentist will focus their attention on during the procedure. Lastly, your dentist will discuss the procedure's potential risks, benefits, and possible alternative treatments, giving you the opportunity to ask any questions and address any concerns you may have.
Anesthesia
During the root canal procedure, your dentist will use anesthesia to numb the affected area. The type of anesthesia administered will depend on the specific case and the patient's needs and comfort level. Some patients may opt for sedation dentistry to help manage anxiety or discomfort during the procedure.
Accessing the Tooth
Accessing the tooth is a crucial step during a root canal procedure. The dentist will first make an opening in the upper part of the tooth, also known as the crown. This will enable them to remove the infected pulp tissue from the root canals of the tooth. In some cases, the dentist may also need to remove some of the surrounding gum tissue to gain better access to the tooth. Once they have sufficient access to the tooth, the cleaning and shaping process can begin. It's important to note that accessing the tooth can cause some discomfort, but the anesthesia administered before the procedure should help alleviate any pain.
After administering anesthesia, the dentist will create a small opening in the crown of the tooth to access the infected pulp. Once the dentist has removed the damaged pulp, they will perform a thorough cleaning of the root canals. This process may require multiple visits for more extensive cases or additional treatments. You can click here to find out why extraction is important.
Cleaning and Shaping
During cleaning and shaping, the dentist will use specialized tools to clean the root canal and remove any remaining pulp, infection, or debris. They will also reshape the canal using rotary files, with the goal of preventing future infections.
Filling and Finishing
With the root canals cleaned, shaped, and disinfected, the dentist will fill them with a filling material known as gutta-percha. A crown or other restorative measure may be fitted over the tooth to protect it from further damage and restore functionality. In summary, while many patients may be apprehensive about root canal procedures, the benefits of this treatment far outweigh the potential challenges. A root canal can save your tooth and restore its functionality while preventing further infections and damage. Talk to your dentist to learn more about the root canal procedure and to determine whether this treatment could benefit you.