Root Canal Treatment: Save Your Tooth Today

What is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure designed to save deeply decayed or infected teeth. It involves cleaning out the tooth’s inner soft tissue, called the pulp, and filling it with a biocompatible material to prevent further infection.

Why Root Canal Treatment is Needed

• Tooth decay: When decay reaches the tooth pulp, bacterial infection risk increases, requiring treatment.
• Trauma: Injury to a tooth can damage the pulp and lead to infection.
• Previous dental work: Cracks or decay in filled or crowned teeth may necessitate treatment.
• Gum disease: Infection at the tooth root due to gum problems may require a root canal.

Root Canal Procedure

Root canal treatment typically involves several steps:

1. Anesthesia: The dentist numbs the tooth with local anesthesia.
2. Decay removal: Decayed parts of the tooth are removed.
3. Pulp removal: The infected pulp is cleaned out using specialized instruments.
4. Canal cleaning: The root canal is thoroughly disinfected.
5. Filling: The cleaned canal is filled with a biocompatible material.
6. Crown placement: Often, a crown is placed to strengthen the tooth.

After Root Canal Treatment

Mild pain or discomfort may occur for a few days but can be managed with pain relief medication. Regular follow-up with the dentist is recommended.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

• Saves the tooth: Preserves the natural tooth structure.
• Pain relief: Eliminates pain caused by infection.
• Maintains appearance: Retains the natural look of the tooth.

Conclusion

Root canal treatment is a common and successful method for saving infected or severely decayed teeth. If your tooth is deeply damaged or infected, consult your dentist promptly to preserve it.