Root Canal Treatment

The Root Canal Procedure

1. Diagnosis: Your dentist will take X-rays to determine the extent of the infection and plan the procedure.
2. Local Anesthesia: To ensure your comfort, local anesthesia is administered to numb the affected area.
3. Pulp Removal: The dentist makes a small opening in the tooth and carefully removes the infected or dead pulp tissue.
4. Cleaning and Shaping: The inner chamber of the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and shaped to prepare for filling.
5. Filling: The empty chamber is filled with a biocompatible material (usually gutta-percha) and sealed to prevent future infection.
6. Crown Placement: In many cases, a crown is placed on the tooth after the root canal to protect it and restore its strength.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

• Preserves Natural Teeth: Saves the tooth from extraction.
• Relieves Pain: Eliminates infection and the associated discomfort.
• Restores Function: Allows you to chew and bite normally.
• Aesthetic Restoration: The tooth can be restored with a crown, matching the look of your natural teeth.

Aftercare and Recovery

After a root canal, it’s normal to experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days. This can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Maintaining proper oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly and attending follow-up appointments is crucial to ensure the long-term success of the treatment. With proper care, a tooth that has undergone a root canal can last a lifetime.