When is a root canal necessary and what does the procedure entail?

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure aimed at saving a tooth that has become infected or severely decayed. At Advance Dental, we specialize in root canal therapy to help our patients preserve their natural teeth and maintain optimal oral health. Let's explore when a root canal is necessary and what the procedure entails.

When is a Root Canal Necessary?

A root canal may be necessary in the following situations:

1. Infected Pulp: When the soft tissue inside the tooth, known as the dental pulp, becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, trauma, or repeated dental procedures, a root canal may be needed to remove the infected tissue and prevent further spread of infection.

2. Severe Tooth Decay: If tooth decay progresses to the point where it reaches the inner layers of the tooth, including the dental pulp, a root canal may be necessary to remove the decayed tissue and restore the tooth's health and function.

3. Dental Trauma: A severe blow to the mouth or a sports-related injury can cause damage to the tooth structure, including fractures or cracks that expose the dental pulp. In such cases, a root canal may be needed to address the damage and prevent infection.

4. Abscessed Tooth: An abscessed tooth occurs when a bacterial infection forms at the root of the tooth, leading to swelling, pain, and pus accumulation. Root canal treatment can help drain the abscess, remove the infected tissue, and alleviate symptoms.

What Does the Procedure Entail?

The root canal procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: Before beginning the root canal procedure, your dentist at Advance Dental will administer local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area, ensuring your comfort throughout the treatment.

2. Accessing the Tooth: Once the tooth is numb, your dentist will create a small opening in the crown of the tooth to access the inner chamber, where the infected or inflamed dental pulp is located.

3. Cleaning and Shaping: Using specialized instruments, your dentist will carefully remove the diseased pulp tissue, along with any debris or bacteria, from the root canals. The canals will then be shaped and cleaned to prepare them for filling.

4. Filling the Canals: After the root canals have been cleaned and shaped, they will be filled with a biocompatible material, such as gutta-percha, to seal off the canals and prevent recontamination.

5. Sealing the Tooth: Once the root canals have been filled, your dentist will seal the opening in the crown of the tooth with a temporary or permanent filling material to prevent bacteria from entering the tooth.

6. Restoration: In most cases, a tooth that has undergone a root canal will require a permanent restoration, such as a dental crown, to protect it from further damage and restore its strength and function. Your dentist at Advance Dental will discuss your restoration options and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Conclusion

A root canal procedure at Advance Dental is a highly effective treatment for saving a tooth that has been compromised by infection, decay, or trauma. By removing the diseased pulp tissue and sealing off the root canals, root canal therapy can alleviate pain, prevent further damage to the tooth, and restore its health and function. If you are experiencing symptoms such as severe tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, or gum tenderness, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We're here to help you achieve a healthy and pain-free smile.