The Ultimate Resource for Root Canal Procedures and Care

What comes to your mind when you think of root canal treatment? Well, most often patients dread the thought of getting root canal treatments. But these procedures are not all that scary as they may sound. 

The Glen Carbon family dentist will answer your queries regarding a root canal treatment through this insightful blog. This will ease your anxiety and help sail you through this extensive procedure for optimal outcomes and quick recovery. 

What is root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment is a minimally invasive endodontic procedure that aims to eliminate infected pulp tissues from the pulp chamber and root canals (spaces that contain pulp tissues within the tooth roots). After extracting the pulp tissues, the hollow space left behind is filled with a biocompatible material known as gutta-percha. 

Why do you need root canal treatment?

You may need a root canal treatment for bacteria inside your mouth invading the pulp inside your tooth and causing inflammation (pulpitis). 

Your tooth may become infected if:

• You have a deep cavity 
• You have a cracked or damaged tooth 

Does a root canal procedure hurt?

Root canal treatments may be uncomfortable, but they may usually not hurt since your dentist numbs the affected tooth with local anesthesia. After the treatment, you may not have any pain at all since all the infected pulp tissue may be removed. However, your treated tooth may feel sensitive for the first few days after the treatment. But if you have throbbing pain, it means there is still infected pulp left in your tooth that requires retreatment. 

What happens if you delay root canal treatment?

Delaying root canal treatment increases the chances that:

• You will lose your infected tooth 
• The infection in your tooth pulp may spread to other teeth 
• The infection may spread to your jawbone 

What happens during root canal treatment?

The procedure is as follows:

• Your doctor will isolate the affected tooth with a rubber dam to control moisture.
• The area around the tooth will be numbed through local anesthesia
• Using ultrasonic instruments, your dentist will remove the decay and debris from the tooth surface.
• An access opening will be made to expose the infected pulp and remove it completely. 
• The root canals will be cleaned to flush out the bacteria and debris. Ultrasonic files will help prepare the canals and later be filled with gutta-percha. This seals your tooth and prevents re-infection.

Root canal treatments are helpful since they save your teeth from extraction. Consult a dentist to discuss your goals and expectations to determine if root canal treatment is the right treatment choice!