ROOT CANAL TREATMENT

What is a root canal?

Patients typically need a root canal when there is inflammation or infection in the roots of a tooth. During root canal treatment, an endodontist who specializes in such treatment carefully removes the pulp inside the tooth, cleans, disinfects and shapes the root canals, and places a filling to seal the space.

When is a root canal needed?

 Root canal therapy is necessary when oral bacteria invade the pulp inside of your

 tooth. This usually happens when a cavity is left untreated for a long time. It can also

 occur if your tooth becomes cracked or damaged due to trauma.

What are some symptoms that indicate you may need root canal treatment?

In some cases, you may not know you have an infected tooth. However, many people notice certain symptoms. Signs you need a root canal include:

·       Tooth pain that doesn’t go away.

·        Sensitivity to heat and cold.

·       Swollen gums.

·       Pimple on the gums.

·       Swollen jaw.

·       Tooth discoloration.

·       Pain when pressure is applied.

·       A chipped or cracked tooth.

·       Loose tooth.

How common is root canal therapy?

    According to the American Association of Endodontists, over 41,000 root canals are

      performed in the United States every day. That means that more than 15 million root   

       canals are completed each year.

What happens during the root canal process?

 Before beginning your root canal, your healthcare provider will take dental X-rays of the affected tooth. This helps determine the extent of damage and ensures that root canal therapy is the appropriate treatment option. Here are the steps that will be completed during your root canal procedure:

1.     Anesthesia.

 First, local anesthesia is given to numb the infected tooth and the surrounding gums. There are also medications used in dentistry to help you relax, such as nitrous oxide, oral sedatives or intravenous (IV) sedation. Your healthcare provider may recommend sedation if you struggle with dental anxiety.

2.   Dental dam placement.

Before beginning root canal treatment, a small rubber dam is placed over the area. This isolates the tooth and keeps it dry during the procedure.

3.  Access hole.

 Next, a small opening is made in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp.

4.   Pulp removal. 

Tiny dental instruments are used to remove the nerves, blood vessels and tissues inside the tooth.

5.   Shaping the canals. 

Once the pulp is removed, the pulp chamber and root canals are cleaned, disinfected and shaped.

6.   Filling the canals. 

The empty canals are then filled with a flexible, rubbery dental material called gutta-percha.

7.   Sealing the tooth. 

Next, a temporary dental filling is placed to seal the tooth and prevent bacteria from re-entering.

8.    Placing the final restoration. 

In most cases, you’ll need a dental crown to protect the treated tooth and restore your bite. Crowns are custom-made, and fabrication usually takes two to three weeks. When your crown is ready, the temporary filling is removed and the permanent crown is placed. In some instances, you may be able to receive a crown during the same appointment.

·       Are root canals safe?

           Root canals are considered safe and effective. This procedure boasts impressive             

           Success rates of up to 98%.