Root Canal Therapy
The goal of a root canal therapy (also known as an endodontic treatment) is the long-term preservation of the tooth. Success in the endodontic treatment is achieved by removing the damaged pulp tissue, disinfection, the correct filling of the root canals and the proper sealing of the after restoration.
Before engaging any type of dental work, it’s important to know the facts about root canals.
What is a root canal?
A root canal is not a treatment, but part of a tooth. It is the hollow section of a tooth that contains the nerve tissue, blood vessels, and other cells, also known as the pulp. However, the term “root canal” has come to be commonly used to talk about the procedure.
The root canal treatment is designed to eliminate bacteria from the infected root canal, prevent reinfection of the tooth and save the natural tooth. When one undergoes a root canal, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed.
Is root canal painful?
One of the goals of the endodontic procedures is to relieve the pain of toothaches caused by pulp inflammation or infection. With modern techniques, root canal instruments and aesthetics, most patients report that they feel comfortable during the procedure and have had achieve root canal pain relief. Therefore, since patients are given local anesthesia, a root canal isn’t more painful than a regular dental procedure, such as a filling. However, it´s completely normal to feel a bit sore after the procedure, endodontic treatment can even cause mild discomfort for a few days. This can be controlled by medication prescribed by your endodontic specialist.
How does endodontic treatment save the tooth?
Enormous progress has been made in the endodontics field. Once the root canal specialist removes the damaged pulp, carefully cleans and shapes the inside of the root, he/she fills and seals the space. Afterward, we recommend you to return to your dentist, who will place a zirconia crown or a filling to protect and restore your tooth to full function like any other for a long time.
How do you know if you need a root canal?
The principal cause for a Root canal is cavities that extend so deeply that the pulp tissue of the tooth becomes inflamed and can´t heal by itself. Sometimes an endodontic treatment is needed for a cracked tooth from injury or issues from a previous filling. Patients generally need a root canal when they notice severe sensitivity, particularly to hot and cold sensations.
There are a few symptoms that mean you might need a root canal:
- Severe pain while chewing or biting
- Pimples on the gums
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Sensitivity to hot or cold, even after the stimulus has been removed
- Deep decay or darkening of the gums
Getting an endodontic treatment helps you maintain your natural smile, continue eating all the foods you love and limits the need for ongoing dental work such as extractions and dental implants.
