Root Canal Treatment is essential for addressing infections that affect the dental pulp; the soft tissue inside the tooth. When this tissue becomes infected, it can cause considerable pain and sensitivity, making it difficult to eat or speak comfortably. If the infection is not treated, it can worsen and lead to more serious problems, such as the development of an abscess; an accumulation of pus that can cause swelling and further pain. In some cases, the infection may even make the tooth loose, increasing the risk of needing extraction.
Typically, the root canal procedure involves several key steps:
- Initially, we apply a topical numbing agent, followed by a local anesthetic to ensure you remain completely comfortable throughout the treatment.
- We then carefully clean the root canals and remove any infected tissue to eliminate the source of the problem.
- After thorough cleaning, we fill the tooth with a biocompatible rubber-like material that prevents reinfection and provides structural support.
In some cases, a crown may be necessary post-treatment to further restore the tooth’s strength and functionality, allowing for normal chewing and maintaining the integrity of your bite.
FAQ’s
Dental pulp infections usually result from untreated cavities, cracks, or chips in the tooth, and even past dental treatments that may have weakened the tooth’s structure. When the enamel is damaged, bacteria can enter the tooth and reach the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. Once infected, the pulp becomes inflamed, leading to severe discomfort. If left untreated, the infection can worsen, causing the tooth to die or form an abscess, which may result in the need for extraction.
A dental pulp infection often comes with noticeable symptoms, the most common being persistent tooth pain that worsens with chewing or pressure. You may also experience heightened sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages, swelling around the gums near the affected tooth, or a bad taste in your mouth caused by the infection. In advanced stages, the tooth may become discolored, and the surrounding gums could swell or form a painful abscess. Any of these signs indicate a need for immediate dental attention to avoid further complications.
Root canal therapy involves a series of well-structured steps designed to eliminate the infection and save your tooth. First, we’ll numb the area with local anesthesia to ensure you don’t feel any pain during the procedure. Once the tooth is fully numb, we’ll create a small opening in the tooth to access the infected pulp. The infected tissue is carefully removed, and the inside of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to eliminate bacteria. Afterward, the empty space is filled with a special rubber-like material to seal the tooth and prevent future infections. In some cases, we may recommend placing a crown on the tooth during a follow-up visit to restore its function and protect it from future damage.
Most patients are pleasantly surprised to learn that root canal therapy is no more uncomfortable than getting a regular filling, thanks to modern anesthetics and techniques. Before we begin, we’ll numb the area with local anesthesia, so you won’t feel any pain during the treatment itself. Some patients may experience mild soreness or sensitivity after the procedure, but this discomfort is usually short-lived and can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that your experience is as comfortable and stress-free as possible, and we’ll be here to guide you through every step.
