What is a Root Canal Procedure?

What’s a “root canal”?
A root canal is a dental procedure that saves damaged or diseased teeth from having to be extracted. During a root canal, the soft inner tissue of the tooth is removed. Then the tooth’s canals are cleaned, filled, and sealed with a sterile, biocompatible material to preserve the tooth. Once the root canal is completed, the patient must return to their general dentist to have a crown or other restoration placed on the tooth. Occasionally, a tooth which has had root canal treatment may require retreatment, additional surgery, or extraction.

Why would I need an endodontic/root canal procedure?
Endodontic treatment is necessary when the tooth’s pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The inflammation or infection can have a variety of causes–deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth. In addition, a blow to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess. Signs of pulp damage include pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of the tooth, and swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums. Sometimes there are no symptoms.

How does endodontic treatment save the tooth?
The endodontist removes the inflamed or infected pulp, carefully cleans and shapes the inside of the tooth, then fills and seals the space. Afterwards, you will return to your dentist, who will place a crown or other restoration on the tooth to protect and restore it to full function.

The root canal: Step by Step.
Step #1: The tooth is examined and x-rays are taken the tooth, then a local anesthetic is administered.
Step #2: An opening in the crown of the tooth is made to clean and shape the pulp.
Step #3: After the space is cleaned and shaped, the root canal is filled with a rubber-like material called “gutta-percha”. In most cases, a temporary filling is then placed to close the opening.
Step #4: After the final visit, you must return to your dentist to have a crown or other restoration placed on the tooth to protect and restore it to full function.

Will the treatment hurt?
Many endodontic procedures are performed to relieve the pain. With modern techniques and anesthetics, most patients report that they are comfortable during the procedure.
Will the tooth need any special care after the procedure?
You should not chew or bite on the treated tooth until you have had it restored by your dentist. The un-restored tooth is susceptible to fracture, so you should see your dentist for a full restoration as soon as possible. Otherwise, you need only practice good oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and regular checkups and cleaning.