Root Canal
A root canal is a dental procedure designed to treat and save a tooth that is severely infected or decayed. The procedure involves removing the damaged or infected pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth) and cleaning, disinfecting, and shaping the root canals. Once the space inside the tooth is cleaned and shaped, it is filled with a biocompatible material, and the tooth is sealed with a filling or crown to prevent further infection. Root canals are essential for saving a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted due to severe infection or decay. The procedure is generally performed by endodontists, who are dentists with specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of dental pulp and root canal-related issues. After a root canal, patients may experience some discomfort or mild pain, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
- Diagnosis : The dentist examines the tooth, takes X-rays, and assesses the extent of the infection or damage. A local anesthetic is administered to numb the area around the affected tooth.
- Access Opening : The dentist creates an opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals.
- Pulp Removal : The infected or damaged pulp is carefully removed from the pulp chamber and root canals using specialized instruments.
- Cleaning and Shaping : The interior of the tooth is cleaned and shaped to remove any remaining bacteria, debris, and pulp tissue. Irrigation with antimicrobial solutions is often performed to disinfect the canals.
- Filling : The cleaned and shaped root canals are filled with a biocompatible material, usually a rubber-like substance called gutta-percha, to seal the space.
- Sealing the Access Opening : The access opening in the tooth's crown is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling.
- Restoration : In many cases, a tooth that has undergone a root canal will require further restoration, such as a dental crown, to provide strength and protection to the treated tooth.
