Why Root Canal Treatment Is Necessary?
Root canal treatment, often considered intimidating, is actually a vital procedure for rescuing severely damaged teeth that are badly decayed or infected. But why do dentists recommend it in the first place?
Deep inside your tooth lies the dental pulp, containing the living tissue of the tooth. When this pulp becomes inflamed or infected – usually due to deep decay, a fracture, or multiple dental treatments, a root canal becomes the only way to save the tooth.
Here’s why:
• Eliminates Infection: The primary purpose is to remove the infected pulp, preventing it from causing abscesses or systemic issues.
• Reduces toothache: Infected pulp can cause sharp aches. Removing it brings quick relief.
• Avoids extraction: Without treatment, the tooth would require removal. Root canal treatment helps retain your original bite, maintaining chewing ability.
• Protects long-term oral health: Untreated infections can cause bone loss, and even spread to other parts of the body.
Simply put, root canal treatment is a essential procedure to treat diseased pulp deep within the tooth, stopping progression, and saving your teeth for the long term. If your dentist recommends a root canal, it’s wise to proceed promptly towards long-lasting dental wellness.
Root Canal Treatment Explained Step by Step
Hearing the words “root canal”. The words can cause nervousness, but understanding the procedure can ease those fears. Here’s a clear explanation of the main stages involved in a root canal treatment:
1. Examination and numbing: Your dentist will examine your tooth, often using X-rays, to confirm the need. Local anesthesia is then given to numb the area completely, making it a pain-free experience.
2. Reaching the nerve chamber: A small opening is created on the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.
3. Removing infection: Using specialized instruments, the damaged tissue is carefully removed. The canals are then thoroughly sterilized and shaped to prepare them for filling.
4. Sealing the roots: The cleaned and shaped canals are filled with a safe, rubber-like substance, usually gutta-percha, to seal them off and prevent recontamination.
5. Temporary filling: A dental braces temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth while you wait for a crown.
6. Final Restoration (Crown): In most cases, a crown is required to strengthen and protect the treated tooth. The temporary filling is replaced with a permanent restoration.
Important Note: While some pain or sensitivity after the procedure is expected, it’s usually manageable with basic medication.
This treatment is highly reliable for preserving natural teeth that would otherwise need to be extracted. If you’re experiencing severe sensitivity, consult your dentist to get timely treatment and relief.