A severely damaged or infected tooth can cause significant discomfort and may lead to more extensive oral health problems if left unaddressed. One common procedure designed to resolve these issues is root canal therapy. This treatment focuses on removing infected tissue from inside the tooth, alleviating pain, and saving the natural tooth structure from extraction. Understanding this procedure can help individuals make informed decisions regarding their dental care when faced with a compromised tooth.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a dental procedure intended to treat infection within the pulp of a tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When this pulp becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay or an injury, treatment becomes necessary.
During the procedure, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed. The inside of the tooth is then carefully cleaned, disinfected, filled, and sealed. This process effectively removes the source of the infection and pain, and allows the tooth to be preserved. Without this treatment, the infection can spread to the surrounding bone, forming an abscess and potentially leading to tooth loss.
What Does It Address?
Several symptoms may suggest that the tooth’s pulp has been damaged or infected. A persistent toothache is one of the most common indicators; the pain may be spontaneous or occur when chewing or applying pressure. Some people experience prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, even after the stimulus has been removed.
Another sign is discoloration of the tooth, which may darken as the pulp dies. Swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums can also point to an infection that has spread from the tooth’s root. It is also possible for an infected tooth to present no symptoms at all, with the problem only being discovered through a routine dental x-ray.
How Is It Performed?
Root canal therapy typically involves one or more visits to a dentist or an endodontist, a specialist in this type of treatment. The first step is to take an X-ray to see the shape of the root canals and determine if there are any signs of infection in the surrounding bone. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area near the tooth so the patient remains comfortable during the procedure.
Next, a small access hole is drilled into the tooth to reach the pulp chamber and root canals. The diseased pulp is removed using very small instruments. The chamber and canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected to remove all traces of bacteria.
After cleaning, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material, usually a rubber-like substance called gutta-percha. The material is placed with an adhesive cement to completely seal the root canals. A temporary filling can be placed to close the access hole. The patient may need to return to their dentist to have a permanent restoration placed on the tooth to protect it and restore its full function.
Confer With an Endodontist
When symptoms of a severe tooth infection arise, consulting with a dental professional is a logical next step. An endodontist is a dentist who specializes in diagnosing tooth pain and performing procedures relating to the interior of the tooth. An endodontist will use advanced techniques and specialized technologies to get a clear view of the tooth’s interior and perform the treatment with precision. This consultation allows for a comprehensive evaluation and helps you understand how root canal therapy can preserve your natural tooth.
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