Nothing can function better than a natural tooth. Regular brushing, flossing, and check-up with the dentist help in keeping the teeth healthy for a long time. But, sometimes, a tooth may get infected or decayed that may require additional care. Many people prefer to get their infected tooth removed as it is easier and cost-effective. But, it is best advisable to save the natural tooth that helps in better functioning. If the infection has reached the pulp of the tooth, then the dentist advises a root canal treatment.
What is the Root Canal Treatment?
The root canal treatment is used to repair an infected tooth and save it. The pulp of the tooth is infected due to decay which is removed during the root canal procedure. The inside of the tooth is cleaned and then filled with a biocompatible material.
Signs for Getting Root Canal
● Sensitivity to hot or cold
● Sharp pain while biting or chewing
● Chipped or cracked tooth
● Swollen or painful gums
● Deep decay reaching the pulp
● Pimples on the gum near the affected tooth
Procedure of Root Canal
The root canal procedure can be performed by an endodontist or dentist. The procedure involves:
Anesthetic
The dentist applies a numbing medication on the gums near the affected tooth. Once the effect starts, local anesthesia is injected into the gums. The patient remains awake during the procedure but will not feel any pain.
Access Opening
The dentist makes a small opening on the top of the tooth to expose the pulp. All the decayed portion is removed and access is made to remove the pulp.
Removal of the Pulp
Once, the infected, pulp is exposed, it is removed with the help of special tools called files. A series of root canal files are used to clean the pulp chamber to the full length of the tooth. Saline or sodium hypochlorite is used to flush out the debris.
Sealing of the Canal
Once the canals are thoroughly cleaned, sealing is done. Some dentists may wait for some time to seal the tooth to see if any infection is left behind. A sealer paste and a thermo-plasticized material called gutta-percha are used to seal the root canal. A filling is used to close the open cavity.
Restoration
A root canal is done when there is extensive decay. Hence, it becomes important to palace a zirconia crown above the tooth in order to prevent it from breaking and restore the full function of the tooth.
A root canal is a relatively simple and painless procedure and helps in conserving the natural tooth. With proper care, root canal-treated teeth may last for a lifetime.