A tooth is a lot more than its appearance. It has a highly intricate anatomical structure that comprises a pulp chamber, root, nerves, canal, and dentin. The tooth ordinarily functions painlessly when its sensitive parts are not exposed to harmful chemicals or food items. However, once it starts to decay, the problem continues to grow until it requires a root canal to prevent further pain and damage.
Most people are apprehensive about root canal and associate it with excruciating pain. To bust the commonly held erroneous beliefs about the procedure, here is an overview of the treatment:
Who needs a root canal?
If you notice any of the following symptoms, visit an oral specialist as soon as possible:
- Continuous pain in the tooth bone
- Puffy or soft gums
- Loose tooth
- Discolored tooth
- Abscess
- Sensitivity to hot and cold food items
- Pain in the tooth during touching or chewing
- Root resorption
- Stubborn pimples on the gums
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Darkened gums or deep decay
A step-by-step guide to root canal
Step 1: The surgeon administers local anesthesia via injections to numb the infected region.
Step 2: Next, the endodontist will place a dental dam on the infected tooth. It is a thin rubber or vinyl sheet placed over the affected and adjacent teeth, which allows the root canal treatment to be carried out in a sterile environment. It’s indispensable to the procedure because the bacteria found in saliva or the rest of the mouth can contaminate the oral cavity during treatment.
Step 3: The surgeon now eliminates the decayed part from the pulp by drilling an access hole through the biting surface.
Step 4: The specialist then cleans and disinfects the root canal and pulp chamber. It’s not a painful step as the area is numb, with the tissue already dead or dying.
Step 5: They then disinfect the canal with an antiseptic and antibacterial solution to prepare it to receive root canal fillings and sealers.
Step 6: At last, the surgeon selects root canal fillings to fit into the freshly prepared canal safely. After filling the canal, a sealant is used to prevent the tooth from becoming reinfected.
Step 7: Once the procedure is complete, a general dentist may prescribe an antibiotic to prevent infection. They will also provide you with aftercare instructions. Follow them carefully for a quick recovery. The after-effects of treatment will last from a couple of days to about a week. You might have minor discomfort after treatment, including slight soreness, which the prescribed or over-the-counter (aspirin, ibuprofen) medications can quickly treat.
Step 8: Your tooth will need a crown to restore and replace the lost tooth structure permanently. The crown also acts as a complete seal for the tooth surface. Your endodontist will refer you to a general dentist who will determine the best tooth restoration option for you.
About Premier Oral Surgery
Our certified oral and maxillofacial specialists provide advanced and comprehensive surgical care to help you maintain holistic oral health. Our treatments include wisdom teeth removal, sleep disorders, IV sedation, bone grafts, dental implants, and TMJ.
If you are a resident of Norwalk, Westport, Stamford, CT, or the surrounding area, call us at 203-939-9390 or email at info@premieroralsurgeryct.com for more details. You can also fill our contact form.
