subject: What To Expect From A Root Canal Treatment [print this page] Within dentistry's ancient past, when a tooth became injured or diseased it would very often have to be removed. Today however, they can be saved with endodontic treatment also known as a root canal Greenwood treatment. You'll probably have to go back to the office more than once as well.
This procedure involves the complete removal and replacement of the tooth's inner pulp. The pulp is at the core of the tooth and contains blood vessels, nerve endings and other soft tissues. The pulp is contained within the chamber at the center of the tooth. This is underneath the layers of dentin and enamel which create the hard shell surrounding it.
It's possible for any tooth in the mouth to contain more than one pulp tunnel and have anywhere from one to several roots. If the inside of the tooth is damaged for any reason and is unable to heal itself, it leaves room for a world of bacteria to enter the pulp chamber. This can ultimately lead to the destruction and death of the pulp but, not before the patient has experienced a tremendous amount of pain.
This is where a root canal procedure becomes vital. Without this operation an abscess can develop at the end of the root and start to cause damage to the surrounding tissue and tooth socket, not to mention create considerable pain. Without this dental treatment, the tooth will probably have to be extracted.
If you've never had a root canal before and you are scheduled to have one, here are a few things you can expect. There will probably be at least 2 visits depending on the technology and the advanced procedures your dentist is using. Additionally, you will most likely receive local anesthetic to the affected tooth area.
The tooth will be surrounded with a rubber-like sheet called a dam to protect it from the patient's own saliva and the ensuing bacteria that accompanies it. An opening will be made at the top of the tooth and the pulp removed. A temporary filling will be placed inside to keep bacteria out.
On the second visit the temporary filling will be removed and the canal will be filled with a permanent material and sealed off. The tooth with the root canal Greenwood can stay healthy with good oral care. So, maintain good oral hygiene at home and your teeth can last you the rest of your life.
