Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure performed by a professional dentist to save a tooth that has become infected or inflamed deep within the root. This treatment is necessary when the pulp, which is the soft tissue inside the tooth, becomes infected due to tooth decay, a crack or chip in the tooth, or trauma to the tooth.
The root canal treatment procedure typically requires two or more visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the dentist will numb the area around the tooth and make a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. The dentist will then use small instruments to carefully remove the infected or inflamed pulp and clean out the root canals. This process can take several hours and may require multiple appointments.
Once the canals have been cleaned, the dentist will fill them with a biocompatible material, usually gutta-percha, to seal them and prevent further infection. The dentist will then place a temporary filling to protect the tooth until the second visit.
During the second visit, the temporary filling will be removed, and the dentist will check to ensure that the infection has been completely eliminated. If the canals are clean and infection-free, the dentist will fill the tooth permanently with a filling or a crown to provide additional protection and restore the tooth’s function.
Root canal treatment is a highly effective and safe procedure that can save a damaged tooth and prevent the need for extraction. It is important to seek treatment promptly if you experience any symptoms of infection, such as tooth pain, sensitivity, swelling, or a pimple on the gums near the affected tooth.
Overall, if you need root canal treatment, it is important to seek the services of a professional dentist with experience in endodontic treatment to ensure the best possible outcome. A trained and skilled dentist can help ensure that the procedure is done effectively and with the least amount of discomfort to the patient.
