What is a root canal treatment?

A root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is necessary when the pulp or nerve of a tooth becomes infected. The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. If the pulp becomes infected, this can lead to an abscess. An abscess is a pus-filled sac that develops at the root of the tooth or in the space between the gums and teeth.

During a root canal procedure, the infected pulp is removed and the tooth roots are disinfected. The roots are filled with a rubber-like substance called gutta percha. After the root canal procedure, the tooth will be fitted with a porcelain crown.

How is a root canal treatment performed?

Once the root canal treatment is complete, a dental crown will be fitted over the tooth. This will protect the tooth from further decay and restore its function.

We will then take impressions of your teeth, which will be used to create your natural-looking crown. While it takes about two weeks for the fabrication of the crown, we will fit a temporary crown to protect the tooth in the meantime.

What are the benefits of a root canal treatment?

A root canal treatment is a procedure used to save a tooth that is infected or badly decayed. During a root canal treatment, the infected part of the tooth is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. The root canal treatment is performed when the patient has an infection of the dental pulp or an infection of the tooth’s nerve. The dental pulp is the inner tissue of the tooth, and the nerve is the tooth’s inner core, which is protected by the dental pulp.

What happens after a root canal treatment?

After a root canal treatment, most patients experience little or no discomfort and are able to resume their normal activities right away. However, in some cases, patients may feel some tenderness or sensitivity. This is typically a normal side effect and can be managed with over-the-counter or prescription medications.

Is root canal treatment painful?

Typically, root canal treatment does not cause pain. If pain is present, it is typically due to the infection in the tooth. The root canal procedure itself should not cause pain.

During the procedure, a local anesthetic will be administered. This will keep pain from developing while the root canal is taking place. Once the tooth is numbed, the dentist will gently remove the infected nerve tissue and pulp. Afterward, the tooth is sealed.

Patients may feel some sensitivity or discomfort in the days following the procedure. Thankfully, over-the-counter pain medication can be used to help alleviate any discomfort.

What happens if I don’t treat my root canal?

If you don’t treat your root canal, your tooth will continue to degenerate from the inside out. Your tooth’s roots are vital for holding the structural integrity of your tooth in place. When the tooth’s roots are damaged, the tooth will lose its firmness and become more brittle. Over time, the gums will begin to loosen and pull away, and your teeth will become looser and looser.

What happens after a root canal retreatment?

A root canal retreatment is much like the original procedure. An infected tooth is hollowed out and cleaned. The canals are filled and the tooth is covered with a crown for protection.