The term “Root Canal Treatment” refers to the treatment used to save the tooth if the pulp becomes infected or inflamed. Dentists commonly perform this successful procedure to treat issues in the tooth’s soft core, known as the dental pulp.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Understanding the signs that may indicate the need for a root canal is most important for timely intervention and treatment.
Common symptoms include:
- Severe toothache when applying pressure or chewing.
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, especially, even after the source has been removed.
- Discolouration of the tooth, such as turning it darker.
- Swelling in the nearby gums.
- A persistent or recurring pimple on the gums near the affected tooth.
Moreover, these symptoms can have different intensity. But they all signal that the pulp within the tooth may be infected or inflamed.
Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing the spread of infection and preserving the tooth.
The various steps in Root Canal Treatment are as follows:
Examination and X-rays:
The dentist examines the tooth. Your dentist may take X-rays to assess the damage and locate the infected area.Numbing the area:
Local anaesthesia is used to numb the tooth being treated along with the surrounding tissues. As a result, it helps to relieve you from pain and discomfort.Application of Dental rubber Dam:
A rubber dam is used to isolate the tooth and keep it dry from saliva during the procedure.An access hole is made:
A small hole is drilled on the biting surface of the affected back tooth or behind a front tooth for entering the pulp and roots of the tooth (root canals).The pulp tissue is removed:
The decayed or infected pulp is removed with very thin needle-like instruments, without causing pain as the area is numbed.Disinfection of root canals:
This is done by flushing the root canals with anti-bacterial and antiseptic solutions.Shaping of root canals:
They are smoothened and made into desirable shape via tiny flexible instruments so that the fillings and sealants can properly fit into them.Root canals are filled and sealed:
The root canals are washed and cleaned of any debris of pulp tissue. Filling material (Gutta-Percha) which fits perfectly into your root canals is selected, heated, and compressed into and against your root canal walls to fill and seal them completely. In fact, this is very important to prevent reinfection.The access hole is sealed:
This is done by a temporary filling, after which the rubber dam is removed.A permanent restoration is put:
This is done after at least a week to allow the treated tooth to recover completely. An artificial crown (capping) is placed to strengthen the tooth, which becomes brittle after the infected nerves are removed.Follow-up:
A follow-up visit could be needed by the dentist to check on healing and that the tooth functions properly.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
Root canal therapy has several benefits that make it a preferred choice for patients having tooth pulp infections or damage.
Here are the main benefits:
Preservation of Natural Tooth
RCT helps preserve the efficient biting force and sensation. A natural tooth, even one that has undergone root canal treatment, tends to look and feel better than an artificial tooth.
Prevention of Further Decay and Infection
By removing the infected or inflamed pulp, a root canal procedure prevents the spread of infection to other teeth and the surrounding gum tissue. Furthermore, Keeping your natural tooth helps to preserve the jawbone and prevents bone loss.
Pain Relief
The root canal procedure is focused to eliminate the pain caused by the damaged pulp. A successful root canal treatment can reduce this uncomfortable swelling caused by infection.
Efficiency and Convenience
The procedure generally requires only one to three visits, making it a time-efficient way to deal with tooth decay or damage. Modern techniques and anesthetics indeed make root canal treatment a manageable and often pain-free procedure.
It’s completely normal to feel a little anxious about Your First Root Canal especially with all the myths out there. But the reality is, root canal treatment is a safe and effective way to save your natural tooth.
At Ohm Dental, we ensure a smooth, comfortable experience with expert care and clear communication throughout the process.
Book your appointment with us today—and take the first step towards a healthier, pain-free smile!
