subject: What Is Root Canal Therapy? [print this page] Root canal therapy, often known simply as a root canal, is a common procedure that many people associate with pain and discomfort, leading them to avoid the treatment at all costs. However, those in need of root canal therapy must receive proper treatment right away to prevent further damage from occurring. Understanding the basics of the root canal process, from what exactly the root canal is to what to expect during treatment, can help you prepare for your root canal therapy. Read on for more.
The Basics of Pulp and Root Canals:
Root canal treatment involves removing pulp from the canals located in the root of the tooth. Pulp refers to soft connective tissue, nerves and blood vessels that nourish the tooth after first emerging from the gums. Once matured, the tooth can survive without the pulp. Cavities that are left untreated can lead to infected pulp, which cannot be treated with antibiotics and therefore must be removed through root canal therapy.
Root Canal Treatment:
The root canal therapy process can be done in one or more visits, depending on each specific case. Location of the tooth in need of treatment may make the process more difficult, requiring several visits, and teeth with more than one root can also take longer. The process involves numbing the area around the tooth or receiving sedation to stay relaxed during the procedure. The dentist then makes a hole in the tooth to access the pulp chamber and remove the infected pulp using special files. Once the pulp is removed, the dentist cleans and shapes the root for filling material. Temporary filling is used until a permanent filling or crown can be placed on top of the tooth.
What to Expect:
Signs and symptoms of a pulp infection may not occur right away, but left untreated, you may experience the swelling near the tooth, pain when biting down on, touching or pushing the tooth, sensitivity to heat and cold, and discoloration.
Visit your dentist if you think you are in need of root canal therapy. Your dentist will administer X-rays and may use an electric pulp tester to determine if the pulp is alive. If you do undergo root canal treatment, you may experience soreness for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Care and Prevention:
Preventing further damage to your treated tooth or any other teeth requires proper dental care and maintenance. Brush and floss regularly, and visit the dentist often. By taking good care of your teeth, you avoid getting root canal treatment.
