Root canal therapy is a common dental procedure that treats infected or damaged teeth. Researchย shows that dentists perform this treatment over 15 million times every year. While it’s reputed as a painful procedure, root canal therapy is actually a safe and effective way to relieve dental pain and enhance oral health.
Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic therapy, is a technique that involves removing the pulp and treating the inside of a tooth. The pulp refers to the damaged and infected nerves, blood vessels, and tissues that can cause intense pain and other dental problems.
Here’s all you need to know about and expect from a root canal treatment.
Root Canal Procedure
It typically takes over two or more dental appointments to perform the root canal treatment. Here are some steps involved:
Step 1: X-Ray
The dentist may request the patient to get a series of X-rays. It helps check the condition and assess the extent of the damage. It can also help the patient understand why the treatment is necessary.
Step 2: Local Anesthetic
The dentist will numb the surgical area at the start of the procedure by administering a local anesthetic. It helps minimize pain and discomfort during the treatment.
Step 3: Rubber Sheet
The dentist will then use a rubber sheet or dental dam to dry the area around the tooth. It prevents swallowing any chemicals during the treatment.
Step 4: Access Hole
The dentist will then drill a small access hole in the crown of the tooth to access the infected pulp.
Step 5: Pulp Removal
Using dental tools, your dentist will remove the infected or damaged pulp from the inside of the tooth. If you have a dental abscess, the doctor can drain it before cleaning and shaping the root canals to prepare them for filling.
Step 6: Filling
After cleaning the canal and removing the pulp, your dentist will fill them with a rubber-like material called gutta-perchaย to seal them and prevent future infections. This part of the procedure may take place on the following appointment, depending on the size of the root canal.
Step 7: Crown
Finally, your dentist will place a crown over the tooth to restore its shape, strength, and function. Dental crownsย are also called caps which are stuck to the tooth with dental cement.
We know it sounds painful โ and yes, you may experience some sensitivity or discomfort for a few days, but it will end as your tooth heals. In the end, it will be worth it.
Here are some benefits of getting root canal therapy.
Pain Relief
Root canal therapy is less discomforting than a tooth extraction. It may cause a little discomfort during the procedure, but the recovery process is relatively quickโthanks to modern techniquesย and effective anesthetics. Moreover, the treatment helps relieve the pain associated with an infected or damaged tooth.
Prevents Natural Tooth Loss
Root canal therapy helps avoid tooth extraction, which removes a damaged tooth from the gums. Instead, the treatment removes the infected or damaged pulp. Filling the root canal and placing a cap helps restore the natural tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted.
Prevents Infection
One infected tooth can affect its neighboring teeth. A pulp infection can lead to cavities and tooth damage due to bacteria that can spread to other teeth if not treated in time. A root canal treatment can help stop the growth and spread of bacteria.
Cost-Effective
A root canal is more cost-effective than a tooth extraction, which may require additional appointments and services such as a dental bridge or dental implants tarzana. A health insurance policy usually covers the cost of a root canal.
Improved Oral Health
Oral health is important to keep your teeth strong and healthy. Getting rid of the infection or damage can improve overall oral health and prevent future periodontal diseases.
Get Your Dental Crowns at All Smiles Family Dentistry
All Smiles Family Dentistryย helps save your teeth and protect your bright smile. During our preventive dentistry servicesย in Tarzana, CA, we use advanced techniques and measures to restore the health of your natural teeth. Our dental hygienists have years of experience in providing dental services, such as dental crowns, dental implants,ย cosmetic dentistry, and more.
If you’re looking for a dentist in Tarzana CA, contact usย to schedule your appointment at our dental office.
