Root Canal Therapy

Experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity? Root canal therapy might be the solution you need to save your tooth. Let’s delve into the details:

Understanding Root Canal Therapy

When the nerve of a tooth is compromised by decay or infection, root canal therapy becomes necessary. This procedure involves removing the affected pulp, which includes the tooth’s nerves, bacteria, and any decay. The space left behind is then filled with specialized dental materials, restoring the tooth to its full function.

Root canal therapy is often the preferred treatment to salvage a tooth that would otherwise need extraction. While some may consider tooth removal as a solution, it can lead to costlier and more significant problems for adjacent teeth.

Signs and Symptoms

You might require root canal therapy if you experience:

• An abscess or pimple on the gums
• Sensitivity to hot and cold
• Severe toothache pain
• Swelling and/or tenderness
• Sometimes, no symptoms are present

Reasons for Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy is typically needed when:

• Decay has reached the tooth pulp
• Infection or abscess has developed inside the tooth or at the root tip
• Injury or trauma has occurred to the tooth

The Root Canal Procedure

The root canal procedure involves one or more appointments and can be performed by a dentist or an endodontist (root canal specialist). Here’s what it entails:

• Preparation: The tooth is numbed, and a rubber dam is placed around it to keep it dry. An access opening is made on top of the tooth.
• Cleaning: Root canal files are used to remove the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria. Any decay is also eliminated.
• Sealing: Once cleaned, the tooth is sealed with either a permanent or temporary filling.
• Filling: At a subsequent appointment, the roots and inside cavity of the tooth are filled and sealed with specialized dental materials.
• Crowning: A crown cap is placed on the treated tooth to protect it from breaking and restore its full function.

Post-Treatment Care

After root canal therapy, your tooth may be sensitive initially, but this will diminish as the inflammation subsides. You’ll receive care instructions to follow after each appointment, including maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental visits.