If you have a tooth with inflamed or infected pulp, it can become painful and may even lead to an abscess. A root canal is an effective treatment that can relieve pain and save a tooth.
Every tooth is unique in its structure and function, but one thing remains common to all teeth – dental pulp. This is the soft tissue found inside of your tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves and other cells. It provides nourishment and sensory response, as well as helping to grow the tooth during its development.
When a tooth gets infected or injured, it can damage the sensitive pulp tissue, which can eventually cause irreversible damage and even lead to death of the root. In severe cases, the tooth may need to be removed.
The first step in a root canal treatment is to numb the area. This is usually done with local anesthesia, a type of medication that numbs the area without affecting the surrounding tissue.
Next, a small protective sheet (dental dam) is placed over the tooth. This isolates the area from saliva and prevents bacteria from entering during the procedure.
A hole is then drilled into the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and the root canals. Tiny dental instruments are then used to remove the dead pulp, clean and shape the canals and fill them with a biocompatible material.
Afterward, a temporary filling is placed to seal the empty canals and prevent bacteria from re-entering. A crown or another restoration is then placed over the tooth to protect it and restore its function.
There are many reasons that a tooth needs to have a root canal. Generally, it happens when the tooth is seriously infected or damaged from a deep cavity or injury. The infection can also be accompanied by swelling and sensitivity in the surrounding gums.
If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. If the infection isn’t treated, it can spread and cause other oral health issues like tooth abscess or bone loss.
Most root canals are performed in one or two visits. Each visit can take 30 to 90 minutes on average depending on how many roots you have and the level of the infection.
The tooth is numbed with local anesthesia and the root canals are cleaned out and shaped. A flexible rubbery material called gutta-percha is then inserted into the canals to fill them. An adhesive cement is then added to help seal the gutta-percha in place and a temporary filling is placed to cover the opening.
When a tooth is infected, the dentist will often prescribe antibiotics to help prevent further infections and reduce pain. This is because bacteria can be resistant to antibiotics and cause systemic problems that affect other parts of the body.
Your dentist will discuss all your options for restoring the tooth. You can have a root canal with the help of a professional endodontist or you may need a crown, a crown and post, or other restorative work to repair the tooth.