A root canal is a dental procedure designed to treat and save a tooth that is badly decayed, infected, or damaged.
When the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels) becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma, a root canal is necessary to remove the damaged tissue, clean the inside of the tooth, and seal it to prevent further infection.
Root canals help alleviate pain, prevent tooth loss, and maintain oral health.
Process:
- Initial Examination and Diagnosis: The process begins with a consultation and examination by a dentist or endodontist (a specialist in root canals). The dentist will take X-rays to assess the extent of damage or infection and confirm whether a root canal is needed.
- Administering Local Anesthesia: Before starting the procedure, the dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth and the surrounding area. This ensures that the patient remains comfortable and pain-free throughout the treatment.
- Creating an Access Opening: Once the tooth is numb, the dentist will place a dental dam (a small protective sheet) around the tooth to keep it clean and dry. Then, a small opening is made on the crown (top) of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals.
- Removing the Infected or Damaged Pulp: The dentist uses specialized instruments to carefully remove the infected or damaged pulp tissue from the pulp chamber and root canals. This step eliminates the source of pain and prevents the spread of infection to surrounding tissues.
- Cleaning and Shaping the Root Canals: After the pulp is removed, the dentist cleans and disinfects the inside of the root canals to remove any remaining bacteria and debris. The canals are then shaped and enlarged to prepare them for filling. This step may involve using tiny files and irrigating solutions to thoroughly cleanse the canals.
- Filling and Sealing the Canals: Once the canals are cleaned and shaped, they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, which is placed into the canals to seal them and prevent future infections. The opening of the tooth is then sealed with a temporary or permanent filling to protect it from contamination.
- Placing a Dental Crown (If Needed): In many cases, a tooth that has undergone a root canal will require a dental crown to restore its strength, function, and appearance. The dentist may place a temporary filling until the permanent crown is ready. At a follow-up appointment, the dentist will remove the temporary filling and place a custom-made crown over the treated tooth.
- Aftercare and Follow-Up: After the root canal procedure, patients may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days. The dentist may prescribe pain relievers or recommend over-the-counter medications to manage any discomfort. Patients should follow the dentist’s aftercare instructions, including avoiding chewing on the treated tooth until the final restoration is completed. A follow-up visit may be scheduled to ensure proper healing.
- Ongoing Oral Care: To maintain the health of the treated tooth and overall oral hygiene, patients should continue with regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. With proper care, a tooth that has undergone a root canal can last a lifetime.