Root Canal

Why is Root Canal Treatment Necessary?

When the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma, it can lead to severe pain, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, swelling, and even abscess formation. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues and result in tooth loss.

Root canal treatment, often simply referred to as a root canal, is a dental procedure performed to save a tooth that has become infected or severely decayed. Despite its intimidating reputation, root canal treatment is a common and highly effective procedure that can alleviate pain and preserve the natural tooth structure.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment:

  • Pain Relief: Root canal treatment alleviates the pain caused by tooth infections and inflammation.
  • Preservation of Natural Tooth: Unlike extraction, root canal treatment allows you to retain your natural tooth, which is essential for chewing and maintaining proper alignment.
  • Prevention of Further Infection: By removing the infected pulp and sealing off the canals, root canal treatment prevents the spread of infection to other teeth and surrounding tissues.

The Root Canal Procedure:

  1. Assessment and Diagnosis: Before the procedure begins, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination, which may include X-rays, to assess the extent of the damage and determine if root canal treatment is necessary.

  2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area, ensuring that you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.

  3. Accessing the Pulp: Once the area is numb, the dentist will create an opening in the tooth to access the infected or damaged pulp.

  4. Cleaning and Shaping: Specialized instruments are used to remove the infected pulp tissue, clean the root canals, and shape them to prepare for filling.

  5. Filling the Canals: After the canals are cleaned and shaped, they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha to seal them off and prevent reinfection.

  6. Restoration: In most cases, a crown or filling is placed on the tooth to restore its strength, function, and appearance.