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| Root canal treatment |
Root canal treatment
What is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that is used to treat an infected or damaged tooth. The procedure involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from the inside of the tooth and filling the space with a material to prevent further infection. Root canal treatment is typically performed by a dentist or endodontist and can help save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted.
When is Root Canal Treatment Necessary?
Root canal treatment is necessary when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or damaged. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, including deep decay, a cracked or broken tooth, or repeated dental procedures on the same tooth. Some common signs that a root canal may be necessary include severe tooth pain, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, swelling or tenderness in the gums, or discoloration of the tooth.
What are the Steps of Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment typically involves several steps, including:
Examination and Diagnosis: The dentist will examine the tooth and take X-rays to determine the extent of the damage and whether a root canal is necessary.
Local Anesthesia: The dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the affected tooth.
Pulp Removal: The dentist will make an opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp inside. They will then use special tools to remove the infected or damaged pulp from the inside of the tooth.
Cleaning and Shaping: Once the pulp is removed, the dentist will clean and shape the inside of the tooth to prepare it for filling.
Filling: The dentist will fill the space inside the tooth with a material, typically a rubber-like substance called gutta-percha. This material helps to prevent further infection and supports the tooth's structure.
Crown or Filling: After the root canal treatment is complete, the dentist will typically place a crown or filling over the tooth to protect it and restore its function. This may be done during the same appointment as the root canal or at a later time, depending on the individual case.
What to Expect Before Root Canal Treatment?
Before root canal treatment, the dentist will typically perform an examination and take X-rays to determine the extent of the damage and whether a root canal is necessary. They may also take a medical history to ensure that the patient is healthy enough to undergo the procedure. Before the procedure, the patient may be advised to avoid eating or drinking for a certain period of time.
What to Expect During Root Canal Treatment?
During root canal treatment, the patient will typically be seated in a dental chair and given local anesthesia to numb the area around the affected tooth. The dentist will then make an opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp inside. They will use special tools to remove the infected or damaged pulp from the inside of the tooth and then clean and shape the inside of the tooth to prepare it for filling. Once the space inside the tooth is filled with gutta-percha, the dentist will typically place a crown or filling over the tooth to protect it and restore its function.
What to Expect After Root Canal Treatment?
After root canal treatment, the patient may experience some mild pain or discomfort, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. The dentist will typically provide instructions on how to care for the treated tooth, including how to brush and floss around it and what foods and activities to avoid. The patient may need to schedule a follow-up appointment to have a crown.
