Root canal treatment is a series of procedures that are performed on the infected pulp of a tooth. It aims to clear the infection and protect the tooth from future microbial invasion. This procedure is often required by people who have experienced trauma to their teeth or have severe tooth decay. There are several types of root canal treatment, and a thorough understanding of the procedure is important for patients to make an informed decision about the treatment option for their specific situation.
When Do I Need Root Canal Treatment
The most common symptom of root canal therapy is tooth pain. This pain may range in severity and occur at any time of the day. It may also radiate to other teeth or the jaw. Patients may also experience prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages. In addition, their gums may become tender or swollen around the affected tooth.
In order to ensure patient comfort, a local anaesthetic is administered before the procedure to reduce any discomfort. During the procedure, the dentist fills the cavity with a temporary material to prevent infection. Patients may experience some numbness, but this will wear off after a few hours. After the procedure, patients are advised to eat soft foods and to take over-the-counter pain medication. Once a patient is completely comfortable with the treatment, they can return to their normal routine. Patients should avoid biting on the tooth until a permanent filling is placed. In some cases, a crown is recommended for complete restoration of the tooth.
If the infection is too advanced, root canal treatment may result in extraction of the affected tooth. If the infection has already reached the bone, replacement options may be limited. The dentist will listen to a patient’s symptoms and then examine the teeth. They may also take x-rays to determine how many roots the tooth has. These x-rays will also reveal the shape and depth of the roots. The treatment process may require more than one appointment. The exact procedure will vary depending on the individual’s needs and the dentist’s expertise.
Model of a tooth at the dentist.Doctor shows the patient a tooth.Reception in the dentist’s office
Root Canal Treatment Steps
Root canal treatment consists of three steps. Typically, the procedure lasts between one and three sessions. First, the dentist will clean and disinfect the tooth, followed by the removal of the diseased pulp tissue. Once this is done, he or she will fill the tooth with a rubber-like material. This filling will protect the tooth in the long-term.
A tooth’s root is hollow and contains nerve tissue, blood vessels, and other tissues. This soft tissue is known as pulp. It is the core of a tooth, and nourishes it with nutrients and moisture. Additionally, it contains nerves that sense hot and cold temperatures. If the pulp is damaged, root canal therapy may be the best option.
Root canal therapy is a surgical procedure that removes bacteria and dying tissue from the root of the tooth. This prevents reinfection of the tooth. The procedure is performed under a local anaesthesia. It is usually performed when the soft inner part of a tooth becomes inflamed or injured.
