Root canal therapy is intended to remove germs from infected root canals, prevent reinfection of the tooth, and preserve the original tooth. When a root canal is performed, the inflammatory pulp within a tooth is removed, and the canal space between the tooth and the gum is cleaned and disinfected before the tooth is filled and sealed.
What Are The Signs That You Need A Root Canal?
Root canals are required for a broken tooth caused by trauma or heredity, a deep cavity, or problems caused by previous treatment. A root canal is usually needed when patients feel their teeth are sensitive, especially to heat and cold.
Symptoms of a root canal include:
- When chewing or biting, there is severe discomfort
- Gum disease caused by acne
- A chipped or broken tooth
- The sensation persists even after it has been eliminated.
- Gums that are swollen or painful
- Gum decay or darkening is a profound deterioration or darkening of the gums.
What Is The Procedure For A Root Canal?
A root canal procedure is carried out in a dental practice. A technician will direct you toward your treatment room, assist you in settling into a chair, and wrap a bib around your neck to protect your clothing from stains.
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Anesthetic
You will be given a small amount of numbing medicine to put on your gum near the damaged tooth. As soon as the anesthetic takes effect, you’ll be injected with a local anesthetic. A severe pinch or a burning sensation may occur, but this will pass rapidly. During the surgery, you will be awake, but the anesthesia will keep you pain-free.
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Taking out the pulp
A general dentist or endodontist will make a small opening in the crown of your tooth while it is numb. The professional will use special tools known as files to remove the infected or damaged pulp carefully. They will take special care to clean out all of the passageways (canals) in your tooth.
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Antibiotics
After the pulp is removed, the dentist may apply a topical antibiotic to the area to confirm that the infection is gone and to avoid reinfection. A sealer paste and a rubber-like material called gutta-percha will fill the tooth after the dentist has cleaned and disinfected the canals. They may also give you antibiotics orally.
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Temporary vacancy
The dentist will complete the process of filling the tiny opening in the tooth’s crown with a soft, temporary substance. This sealant can prevent saliva damage.
After Root Canal Treatment, What Happens?
Root canals are a type of restorative procedure. Most people who have the surgery done can enjoy the benefits for the rest of their lives. However, how long the benefits persist is dependent on how well you care for your teeth. Just like the rest of your teeth, you should brush and floss your restored tooth regularly.
Prevention
Dentists like this reputable dentist in staten island prescribe the following measures to prevent infections, tooth decay, and gum disease:
- Brushing teeth last thing at night and at least once more every day
- Using fluoride-containing toothpaste
- Using an appropriate toothbrush and renewing it regularly
- Attending frequent dental examinations and cleanings
- Flossing to clean between the teeth and reduce plaque accumulation
- Following a healthy diet and avoiding sugary drinks and meals.
A root canal is a procedure involving the removal of the nerve and tooth roots in order to restore function. It is one of the most common dental procedures and is often necessary when other treatments such as crowns or bridges are not effective. If you are experiencing extreme pain or discomfort, see your dentist as soon as possible for a root canal evaluation.
Our dental office in Bakersfield, CA offers a wide variety of services for patients looking for an affordable dentist. We provide everything from teeth whitening to root canal therapy.
