Root canal is a dental procedure that is used to remove the infected pulp. Learn about the reason why it is needed, the procedure and more. A root canal is a dental procedure that involves removing the soft center, known as pulp in the tooth. The pulp is made up of connective tissues, nerves and blood vessels that help the tooth grow and nourish. The procedure is undertaken either by a general dentist or an endodontist. Local anesthesia is used on the area where the incision is done and it can be done in the dentists office. Although it is a small dental procedure and can be done within a span of 30 to 60 minutes, there are potential risks involved and one should be aware of all factors before going for the procedure.
Reasons Why A Root Canal Is Needed
A root canal is done when the inner pulp of the tooth is somehow injured leading to infection or inflammation. Contrary to common notion, the crown of the tooth or the part of the tooth that is above the gums is not affected even when the pulp is dead. The procedure is mostly recommended to prevent the structure of the tooth from the infected pulp that could eventually lead the tooth to fall out.
Some of the common causes of the damage of the pulp inside the tooth include:
01. Decaying deeply due to untreated cavity
02. Multiple dental procedures on the same tooth
03. A chip or crack in the tooth
04. An injury to the tooth which can happen when someone is hit in the mouth (the pulp could be damaged even though the tooth remains unhurt)
When the pulp is damaged the patient will feel severe pain in the tooth and gums. Apart from that, there will be swelling and a heat sensation in the gums. The dentist examines the painful area and takes an X-ray to confirm the diagnosis. In some cases, the dentist will refer the patient to an endodontist when a more complex root canal is required.
Root Canal Procedure
As mentioned above, a root canal can be done in the dentists office. Once the patient arrives for their appointment, a technician will escort them to the treatment room and help them in the chair. A bib is tie around the neck to prevent the clothes from getting stains.
The procedure begins by applying small amount of numbing medication on the gum near the affected tooth. Once the affected area is completely numb, a local anesthetic will be injected into the gums. The patient may feel a sharp pinch or burning sensation that passes quickly. The procedure is done with the patient awake but the anesthetic will keep them from feeling any pain.
When the area is numb the dentist will make a small incision in the top of the tooth. On exposing the infected or damaged pulp the doctor will carefully remove it using files. The pathways or the canals in the tooth are meticulously cleaned out as well.
After the pulp has been removed the dentist will coat the area with antibiotic so that the infection is completely gone and there is scarce chance of recurrence. The disinfected and cleaned up canals are then filled and the tooth is sealed with a rubber-like paste called gutta-percha. Often oral antibiotics are also recommended post-surgery. The procedure is completed by filling the small opening in the top of the tooth with a soft temporary material. This seal helps prevent the canals from being damaged by saliva.
Recovery after Root Canal
A root canal is considered a restorative procedure. Most people who undergo the procedure are able to enjoy the positive results for the rest of their lives. Still, how long results last depends on the way the patient take care of their teeth. It is imperative that the patient follow good oral hygiene following the procedure.
Root Canal Follow-ups
After the procedure as the numbing medication wears off, the gums might start to feel sore. There also could be swelling. These symptoms are often treated with over-the-counter medication like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). However, if the pain persists for more than a few days, the patient needs to consult with the doctor.
The patient is allowed to resume the normal routine the day after the procedure. It is advisable to not chew with the tooth that was operated on until it is permanently filled or a crown is placed on top of it. The patient will see their regular dentist within a few days of the root canal. They will take X-rays to make sure that any infection is gone. They will also replace the temporary filling with a permanent filling.
There is the option of a permanent crown on the tooth. Crowns are artificial teeth that can be made from porcelain or gold. The benefit of a crown is its realistic appearance. It may take the patient several weeks to get used to how the tooth feels after the procedure. This is normal and no cause for concern.
Root Canal Risks
A root canal is performed in an effort to save your tooth. Sometimes, however, the damage is too deep or the enamel is too frail to withstand the procedure. These factors can lead to loss of the tooth. Another risk is developing an abscess at the root of the tooth if some of the infected material remains behind or if the antibiotics are not effective.
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