What to Expect from a Root Canal

If you have recently visited the dentist and require a root canal, you may be scared and fearful as to what is to come. Most everyone does not like going to the dentist and can easily become afraid of treatment needed to do the unknown. By learning more about this procedure, you will be able to feel more secure as you arrive at the dentist to complete the procedure.

Root Canal

This type of treatment is provided by a dentist for a variety of reasons, including a cracked tooth, an injury to a tooth or a deep cavity. A root canal will remove the pulp of the tooth, the threadlike tissue that is located at the center of the tooth. Once the tooth pulp is dead, has a disease or damaged, it will require removal. The space that remains after the pulp has been removed will be cleaned, then shaped and filled. The root canal is sealed off and you will no longer feel uncomfortable or pain.

A tooth that has a pulp issue can become infected. If the tooth is left untreated it can lead to pus buildup. The pus can then form an abscess on the tooth. This will destroy the bone that surrounds the tooth and cause you to feel pain.

The Procedure

If you have never had a root canal, then you may be wondering how it is completed. The treatment type has several steps. You may need to visit the dentist a few times before the procedure will be complete. First, the dentist will review your issue and tell you that a root canal is needed. The first portion of the treatment is to create an opening at the back of a front tooth, or within the crown of a molar. This is where the diseased pulp will be removed.

The dentist will complete a pulpectomy which will see the pulp removed. The chamber where the pulp was located and the root canals are then cleaned. The dentist will enlarge the area and shape it to prepare for filling.

If you will be required to visit the dentist more than one time, a temporary filling will be placed on the affected tooth. This protects the tooth between your dental visits. When you arrive back at the dentist, the temporary filling will be removed and then the tooth filled permanently. A specific material is placed inside the root canal to protect the tooth.

The final step of the process is a crown. This will help to restore the shape and appearance of the tooth. In some cases, a post might be required to help build up space for the crown to be added.

A tooth that is treated with a root canal should last a lifetime, as long as it is properly cared for. Treated teeth can still be subject to tooth decay, so be sure to take care of your oral hygiene with proper brushing and flossing daily.

Winn Family Dentistry offers root canal services along with a host of other treatment options. Schedule an appointment today if experiencing any tooth pain that might be associated with root canal needs.