Stages Involved In A Root Canal Procedure
A root canal procedure is required if the soft tissue in your tooth is infected. The infection is mainly caused by severe tooth decay, a crack or chip in your tooth, or repeated dental procedures.
An injury to your tooth can also lead to pulp damage even when the tooth doesn't have visible cracks or chips. Failing to address pulp inflammation can result in excruciating pain or an abscess. Here are the main stages involved in a root canal procedure.
Diagnosing the Infected Pulp
The inside of your tooth is filled with a tissue known as pulp. Many patients suffering from a pulp infection usually go to the dentist complaining of a toothache. Some tell-tale signs of pulp inflammation include pimples on the gums, swollen gums, sensitivity to cold or hot, a cracked or chipped tooth, and severe pain while biting or chewing. You should also be wary of the darkening of the gums and deep decay.
If a dentist determines the cause of the problem to be inside the tooth, you will be sent to an endodontist for further examination. The specialist will use digital X-rays and digital imaging to examine the inside of your tooth. The endodontist will schedule a root canal procedure if the results show an infected or inflamed pulp.
Preparing the Infected Area
First, the dentist will numb the area and place a dental dam in your mouth. The dental dam isolates the infected tooth by covering the healthy teeth in the mouth. Next, the dentist will drill through your tooth to access the pulp chamber.
The dentist will clean the pulp chamber and root canals with an antibacterial solution. This will get rid of bacteria and treat the infection in the canals. Afterward, the dentist will shape the root canals to prepare them for a temporary filling material called gutta-percha. Later, the canals will be sealed to prevent bacteria.
Restoring the Tooth
After a few weeks, your dentist will remove the temporary filling material and replace it with a permanent one. This will restore your tooth's strength. This permanent filling material also prevents further infection.
If the procedure was performed on the back tooth, your dentist may place a crown. The crown adds stability to the tooth. A permanent crown will be designed to match the other teeth. This enables the tooth to handle the impact of chewing once again.
In Closing
Many think root canal procedures are painful and have intolerable side effects. However, your dentist will put you under local anesthesia before performing this procedure. Root canal procedures have a high success rate. All you need to do after the procedure is practice good oral hygiene, including flossing, brushing, and regular dental checkups.
For more info about root canals, contact a local company.
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