What Is Root Canal Therapy?

Many people often associate root canal therapy (endodontic therapy) with a painful

procedure followed by days of discomfort; therefore, avoiding the treatment altogether out of fear and intimidation. Unfortunately, inaccurate information about root canal therapy prevents patients from making informed decisions regarding their oral health. Understanding the basics of root canal therapy, including how it works and what to expect, can help you realize the importance of the treatment as well as how to prevent root canal problems from occurring. Below, learn about root canal therapy.

The Root Canal:

Root canal treatment is often simply referred to as "root canals." The actual root canal, however, is actually a canal inside the root of the tooth, which is filled with nourishing connective tissue, blood vessels and nerves called pulp. Root canal therapy involves safe removal of pulp that has been infected due to an untreated cavity, trauma or a fractured tooth. Infected pulp can cause an abscess, which can result in a tooth extraction if the proper treatment is not performed. Saving your tooth, if possible, is always the best solution, and root canal therapy restores the natural tooth to its normal function and natural appearance.

Treatment and Process:

Root canal treatment is usually overseen by both a general dentist and an Endodontist, a dentist who specializes in root canal therapy. Depending on each specific case and which tooth is involved, the process for root canal treatment may involve more than one appointment with the Endodontist and then additional appointments with the general dentist to complete the restoration.

First, the patient is made to feel comfortable with an anesthetic. Next the Endodontist prepares an opening in the tooth to expose and remove the infected pulp. Once the pulp is removed, the root is cleaned and prepared for filling material, and a temporary restoration is placed on the tooth. The final restoration (usually a crown) is then done by the general dentist.

What to Expect:

You may not experience signs and symptoms of a root canal infection until it becomes more severe, causing pain and swelling and in some cases, abscess formation. Sensitivity to heat, pain when biting down, discoloration, swelling, or sensitivity to the cold are all common signs of pulp infection. After root canal therapy, you may experience soreness for two to three days. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help reduce any swelling, and you should avoid chewing on that side of the mouth.

Prevention and Care:

To prevent further damage from occurring, as well as preventing the need for root canal therapy in the first place, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene. Regular examinations by the dentist will catch any signs of infection in the pulp of a tooth. Pulp infection can develop from untreated tooth decay, which can be avoided by regular professional dental cleanings along with brushing and flossing on a regular basis. Try to eat healthy foods to keep teeth strong and healthy. It is important to visit an Endodontist if symptoms of an infected tooth emerge.

by: Darla Scheidt

POST COMMENT

Root Canals: All You Need To Know About Them Find The Best Root Canal Treatment In India Tech Marathon: Runners rooting on November 1 HTC Wildfire Soft-rooted! Webroot Review & Coupon Code Trojan Infection Warning - How to Remove Rootkit.Agent For Good? Causes Of Ovarian Cysts Understanding The Root Cause Of Ovarian Cysts Identifying Category Cables How To Know If You Need A Root Canal Root Canal Therapy- Save Your Tooth And Stop The Pain What To Expect From A Root Canal Hurricane Igor a Category 4, Tropical Storm Julia forms Horror Punk Rock Takes Root In Misfits Albums