What Are Root Canals?
A credible dentist is able to perform a number of procedures on patients. One of the most popular ones is called a root canal. Usually, root canals are recommended to patients or they become mandatory when the presence of an infection that is quite deep rooted within a tooth is detected.
Typically, the pulp inside the tooth may become infected with bacteria if left untreated. Sans treatment, the infection can become so severe and intense that the tooth may have to be displaced ultimately. Therefore, those who need a root canal should not waste any time.
Performance
Basically, a conventional root canal is comprised of a number of steps. Generally, dentists adhere to these steps when they carry out a root canal procedure. Treatment may require the patient to visit on more than one occasion.
The first step involves using a needle through which the dentist administers local anesthesia to the patient. This is done in order to numb the tooth, so that the patient is not on the receiving end of considerable pain once the operation begins. All they feel is the pinch when they needle is inserted in their gum.
Dentists proceed by placing a dental dam, which is a small sheet of rubber that is used to separate the tooth so that it remains clean and dry when the root canal is being done. Then, the dentist employs several small tools, which include a small drill, so that they are able to access the insides of the affected tooth. They create an incision in the top portion of the tooth.
This is followed by the dentist using tiny files to remove the damaged pulp which emanate from the inside of the tooth. They use these files to shape the inner chamber of the damaged tooth and root. In addition, they may have to irrigate the chamber with water so that any residual pulp is also cleared successfully.
Last but not least, they may also introduce an antimicrobial solution to the chamber of the tooth. This ensures that any bacterium which may reside in the chamber is done away with and the risk of further infection is also unlikely.
Once this step is done meticulously, then chamber is cleaned and dried thoroughly. Then, a rubber like material is used to fill the tooth. The dentist may close the opening in the patient’s tooth with a temporary filling in some cases as well. This is done for the time being until a permanent crown is attached.
This concludes the first sitting in earnest. The tooth is given a few weeks to recover. Once considerable time has passed, the dentist calls in the patient to finish the root canal. This includes replacing the transient filling with a resolute crown or a similar form of restoration on the top of the affected tooth.
Based on the condition of the natural tooth, the dentist may need to place a supporting post on the inside of the root chamber in a bid to make the crown more stable and substantial.
If you think you may need a root canal or have any other dental questions, contact Younts DDS today!