Like many other dental procedures, root canal treatment is a solution to fixing dental problems. However, patients panic when dentists suggest this treatment. Perhaps because it sounds like an extremely painful procedure? This guide will tell you everything you need to know about this procedure and why it is so important.
Why is Root Canal Treatment Important?
A tooth is more than just the white shell! It contains many other elements such as nerves, root canal, dentin, and pulp chamber. The tooth functions normally when these elements are unexposed. However, when the tooth starts to decay, it leaves these elements exposed which can cause infections and a lot of pain.
There is no way to stop the process. The longer you leave it unattended, the more it is going to grow and spread. This is highly painful too. Hence, individuals choose to get root canal treatment to save their teeth.
The procedure might be painful. However, you can ask your dentist to use an anaesthetic to relieve the pain. While there may be some discomfort after the procedure, there is nothing some regular pain reliever medicines will not do.
A Step-by-Step Guide to the Root Canal Treatment Procedure
This dental procedure involves removing the infected pulp from within the tooth effectively curing it. Removing the infected pulp is essential as the bacteria present in it can spread to other parts of the mouth and kill the host tooth. What’s more, without the pulp removal, the other teeth will also decay.
This dental procedure nips the spread of bacteria in the bud and saves your teeth. Once the infected pulp is removed, any present cavity is cleared and the tooth is sealed until a permanent crown is created. Refer to this in-depth guide to the entire procedure of root canal treatment.
- The Dentist Administers the Anaesthetic: A local anaesthetic is administered with the help of which the entire area goes up. This helps the dentist in initiating the root canal procedure.
- Placing the Dental Dam: The dentist will then apply a dental dam usually made of rubber or vinyl. This allows them to concentrate specifically on the infected tooth by creating a sterile environment and reducing the risks of infection spreading to the other teeth.
- Drilling the Infected Tooth: To gain access to the infected chamber to remove the pulp, a minute hole is drilled into the infected tooth. Now, the hole may be drilled into the biting surface or the back of the tooth. This depends on where the tooth is located.
- Removing the Infected Pulp: The infected pulp consists of dead pulp tissue and nerves. With the help of special dental tools, this pulp is removed. Once it is removed, the infected tooth will not be able to feel any more pain.
- Disinfection: The inner and outer parts of the infected tooth are now disinfected. This is an important step to eliminate and stop the spread of bacteria.
- Insertion of Flexible Canals: Flexible canal tools are inserted into the canals to shape the area.
- A Filling is Applied: Once the area is shaped, dental fillings and sealers are applied. Also known as gutta-percha, this filling is made of rubbery thermoplastic. It is then sealed with adhesive cement. The cement prevents any chances of reinfection in the long term.
- Antibiotics are Prescribed: The dentist may prescribe a course of antibiotics for you to take while the crown is being prepared. It is vital that you follow these instructions and take the prescribed antibiotics regularly.
- The Crown gets Fitted: Once the permanent crown is prepared, it is fitted over the tooth. The root canal procedure removes the basic structure of the tooth. The crown helps in supporting the tooth. Now, whilst you may choose between different types of crowns, the dentist will usually suggest a specific crown that will be most beneficial in the long term.
Conclusion
While the root canal treatment might sound scary and painful, it is anything but that. It will relieve you of the pain and save your teeth. We use the latest technologies available to simplify the root canal procedure for you. If you would like to book a consultation or appointment, feel free to contact us anytime. We shall be happy to help you!
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