Root Canal Treatment

Root Canal Treatment

What is root canal treatment?
The procedure of root canal treatment focuses on eliminating bacteria from the infected tooth and preventing reinfection. When the tooth pulp (the innermost layer of the tooth) gets infected beyond repair, it needs to be removed. The complete procedure of pulp removal and tooth repair is known as RCT or root canal treatment. This is a conservative procedure that is done to save the natural tooth by filling the tooth and covering the tooth with the crown.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment stands out as a highly effective method for preserving teeth and eliminating pain. Here is why it is a preferred option:

Preserve Natural Teeth: Root canal treatment allows you to keep your natural tooth, preventing the need for extraction and dental implants. This means your smile stays authentic, and the structure of your jaw remains intact.
Eliminates Pain and Discomfort: Contrary to common belief, laser root canal treatment doesn’t cause pain; it relieves it. Removing the infected or inflamed tissue, it addresses the source of discomfort, allowing for a pain-free experience.
High Success Rate: With advanced techniques and materials, root canal treatments have a very high success rate and can last a lifetime with proper care, making them a reliable choice for dental restoration.
Quick Recovery: Recovery from a root canal is typically swift, with most people returning to their normal activities the very next day. It’s a small investment of time for a lifetime of benefits.

Who Might Need a Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment is often recommended for those experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity to hot and cold, indicating an infection or damage deep within the tooth. It is especially suitable for:

If tooth decay reaches the tooth’s pulp, a root canal can remove the decay and save the tooth.

Injuries to the tooth that expose the nerve can often be remedied with a root canal, preserving the tooth’s functionality.

For those aiming to maintain their natural teeth and avoid dentures or implants.

Conditions Root Canal Treatment Can Treat
Root canal treatment is a versatile procedure capable of addressing various dental issues beyond just relieving pain. Here are five conditions it can effectively treat:

Deep Tooth Decay
Targets decay reaching the tooth’s pulp, removing infected tissue to prevent tooth loss.

Dental Abscesses
Cleans out infections within the tooth, treating abscesses that cause pain and swelling.

Tooth Injury
Repairs cracks or chips that affect the tooth’s pulp, preserving its structure and health.

Severe Gum Disease
In cases where gum disease affects the tooth’s root, root canal therapy can save the tooth and enhance oral health.
 

Procedure for root canal treatment:

• Local anesthesia is given to relieve the existing pain. So it is a painless procedure and there is nothing to be worried about.
• After sufficient anesthesia is achieved, the infection from the tooth is removed, and the pulp chamber is entered.
• All the infected tooth material will be removed and cleaned using instruments and a wash with disinfectants. In case of a deeply infected tooth, an intracanal medication is placed, and fillings done on a later appointment.
• Filling of the root canal will be done on the same day, or on a later appointment, and the canal is sealed.

Instructions to be followed post root canal treatment

Do not bite or chew on the tooth in which the root canal has been performed immediately.

Capping or crowning of tooth root canal treatment would be required. A full ceramic/metal ceramic crown will usually be advised. Your doctor will provide you with the best options, and you can choose from them.

‘Prevention is better than cure’. These are golden words that apply to every aspect of our daily life. So if you notice a small decay on your tooth surface, it is highly recommended that you go to your dentist at this stage, rather than wait for the decay to spread and pain to begin. It is always earlier the better.

Feel free to contact us if you have more questions regarding root canal therapy

• Category: Root Canal Treatment