Root canal therapy is a procedure that is used to save an infected or severely damaged tooth. Common causes of a tooth needing a root canal include deep decay, cracks, or trauma to the tooth.
A root canal procedure can take just one appointment with a dentist or endodontist, a root canal specialist. The tooth is first numbed and covered in a sheet of rubber to keep it dry. The inside of the tooth is accessed by an opening made at the top of the tooth, through which instruments are used to remove decay, the nerve tissue and bacteria. The root canal system is disinfected and the space is filled with a material.
After a tooth has a root canal completed, a crown is usually recommended by your dentist to keep the tooth strong. After the treatment, the tooth may still be sensitive due to inflammation, but this should subside once the tooth fully heals.
There are a few symptoms you should keep in mind that could signal problems with your tooth, that may need root canal treatment:
- An abscess or pimple on the gum
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
- Severe Toothache
- Swelling and Tenderness
These symptoms are not always present. Even so, a root canal is necessary. If ignored, it can lead to severe problems:
- Infections or abscess inside the tooth
- Advancement of decay, which may cause the tooth to become not savable and need to be extracted
A root canal procedure can take just one appointment with a dentist or endodontist, a root canal specialist. The tooth is first numbed and covered in a sheet of rubber to keep it dry. The inside of the tooth is accessed by an opening made at the top of the tooth, through which instruments are used to remove pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria. If there is tooth decay, that too will be removed.
Once the tooth is cleaned thoroughly, the will be sealed with a permanent filling, or a temporary one is more appointments are needed. A cap may also be places on top of the tooth to prevent it from breaking. After the treatment, the tooth may still be sensitive due to inflammation, but this should subside once the tooth fully heals.