What is Root Canal Treatment and When it is Required?

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure performed to remove infected or damaged pulp from the inside of a tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue that help grow and maintain the tooth. When the pulp becomes infected or damaged, it can cause severe pain, swelling, and even tooth loss if left untreated. In this blog, we will discuss what root canal treatment is, when it is required, and what to expect during the procedure.

root canal treatment

A root canal therapy is a dental procedure that involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth’s interior and cleaning and disinfecting the root canals. After the canals are cleaned and dried, the dentist fills them with a biocompatible material known as gutta-percha and seals the tooth with a filling or crown. The procedure usually takes two or three appointments, depending on the severity of the infection.

Root canal is required when the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected or damaged due to deep decay, cracks, or chips in the tooth, or trauma to the tooth. When the pulp is infected or damaged, it can cause severe pain, swelling, and sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues, leading to an abscess or even tooth loss. Root canal therapy is the best way to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted.

There are several signs and symptoms that indicate you may need root canal treatment, including:

  • Severe toothache that may be constant or intermittent
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
  • Pain when biting or chewing
  • Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the affected tooth
  • Discoloration of the tooth
  • Pus or discharge around the affected tooth
  • A foul taste or odor in the mouth

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult your dentist immediately. Ignoring the symptoms can lead to further complications and may even result in tooth loss.

The root canal procedure involves the following steps:

Local anesthesia

The dentist administers local anesthesia to numb the affected area, ensuring the patient feels no pain during the procedure.

Accessing the pulp

The dentist creates an opening in the tooth's crown to access the infected or damaged pulp.

Removing the pulp

The dentist uses small files to remove the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth's interior and cleans the canals.

Disinfecting the canals

The dentist uses an antiseptic solution to disinfect the canals and remove any remaining bacteria.

Filling the canals

The dentist fills the canals with gutta-percha, a biocompatible material that seals the canals.

Sealing the tooth

The dentist seals the tooth with a temporary dental filling or crown to protect the canals from further infection.

Placing the permanent filling or crown

In the final appointment, the dentist places a permanent filling or crown to restore the tooth's function and appearance.

After the procedure, the tooth may be sore or sensitive for a few days, but the discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and should subside within a few days.

Root canal treatment is a safe and effective dental procedure that can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. If you experience any of the signs and symptoms mentioned above, it is important to consult your dentist immediately to prevent further complications. With proper care and maintenance, a root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime.

If you are considering root canal treatment in Brampton, talk to us to find out if it is a good option for you.

Also, to know more about the root canal and aftercare, contact Beaumaris Dental Care. With good care, a root canal can last you a lifetime

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