Root Canal Treatment
A root canal is the naturally occurring anatomic space within the root of a tooth. A cavity in the tooth leaves an opening where bacteria can enter and multiply. Left without treatment, these bacteria cause infections and form pockets or abscesses filled with pus up at the roots of the tooth. This causes severe pain and swelling that could spread to other areas of the face or head. Serious infections bring about bone loss around the tip of the tooth's roots. Root canal treatment involves removal of the nerves and pulp & cleaning and sealing the infected area inside the tooth.
Three basic steps of Root Canal Treatment
Step 1 : A small access cavity is prepared in the tooth and the root canal is cleared and disinfected. Then the tooth is temporarily closed with temporary filling.
Step 2 : After the tooth infection subside, a bio compatible material is placed in the canal with sealer. Then temporary filling placed while you await the completion of your permanent restoration. In our clinic as a permanent restoration we use composite tooth colored material.
Step 3 : Once tooth becomes asymptomatic and no further problems are seen, a permanent restoration of composite tooth colored filling will be placed. A crown may be placed depending upon your individual case.
Root Canal FAQs
1What is a Root canal treatment?
Infected or inflamed pulp is removed, root canal cleaned,shaped & disinfected with special sets of instruments. Then cleaned & disinfected canal filled with material called gutta-percha with root canal sealant. Afterward, the tooth is restored with white colored composite material.
2Why do I need Root Canal Treatment?
When the inside of the tooth that called as pulp & root canal becomes inflamed or infected one needs Root Canal Treatment. The causes are deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, crack or large chip in the tooth, faulty crowns, trauma to a tooth especially in front teeth. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.
3Is Root Canal Treatment Painful ?
With the help of modern techniques & anesthetics, the majority of patients are comfortable during the procedure. In fact, root canal treatment doesn't cause pain but actually relieves it.
4What would be a better choice, Removal of tooth or Root Canal treatment?
Natural tooth roots have surrounding ligaments attached with underlying bone that gives cushion type of effect which transform forces while chewing in natural way & give very good feeling. Also natural tooth preserve underlying bone which is more good for aesthetic. Placement of a bridge require further procedures to a adjacent teeth. So root canal treatment is a more better option then tooth removal.
5How long does a root canal treatment take?
The treatment can be completed in one visit. At times a second visit may be needed.
6Large cavity without pain does require root canal treatment?