ROOT CANAL TREATMENT
Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure used to treat infection at the center of a tooth (the root canal system). It's often necessary when the pulp inside the tooth, which consists of soft tissue including nerves and blood vessels, becomes infected or damaged.
In What Cases is Root Canal Treatment Performed?
Root canal treatment is typically performed in the following cases:
- Deep Decay: When tooth decay reaches the pulp.
- Infection or Abscess: Caused by decay or injury leading to pus formation around the tooth.
- Trauma to the Tooth: Such as a physical blow that damages the pulp.
- Repeated Dental Procedures: On the same tooth causing stress to the pulp.
- Cracks or Chips in the Tooth: Exposing the pulp to bacteria.
Duration of the Procedure
The length of the procedure can vary, but it typically requires one or two visits to the dentist. Each session may last about 90 minutes, though this depends on the severity of the tooth's condition.
Step-by-Step Root Canal Treatment Procedure
- X-Ray: To see the shape of the root canals and determine if there are any signs of infection in the surrounding bone.
- Local Anesthesia: Administered to numb the area and prevent pain.
- Pulpectomy: An opening is made, and the diseased tooth pulp is removed.
- Cleaning and Shaping: The canals are cleaned, enlarged, and shaped to prepare them for filling.
- Filling the Canals: The canals are filled with a permanent material, often gutta-percha.
- Sealing: The opening of the tooth is sealed with a temporary filling which will be replaced by a crown or permanent filling in a subsequent visit.
Advantages of Root Canal Treatment
- Pain Relief: Eliminates pain caused by the infected or damaged pulp.
- Tooth Preservation: Allows keeping the natural tooth, which is better for chewing and normal biting force.
- Aesthetic Benefits: A crown can be placed for cosmetic reasons.
- Prevents Jawbone Degeneration: Retaining your natural tooth helps maintain the jawbone.
- Prevents Spread of Infection: Stops the infection from spreading to other teeth or parts of the body.
It's important to follow up with proper dental care after a root canal treatment to ensure the longevity of the tooth and overall dental health.