Root Canal Treatment

A root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage to the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels). The pulp can become infected or inflamed due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth.

Root canal treatments are often done to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. They are commonly performed under rubber dam and local anaesthesia, typically cause no discomfort once the area is numb.

A root canal treatment typically involves several stages to remove infected tissue and restore the health and function of the tooth. The treatment usually requires one or two visits, depending on the complexity of the case.

Treatment stages:

Initial Consultation: The dentist or endodontist will take X-rays and examine the affected tooth to determine the extent of the infection or damage.

Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia is administered to numb the tooth and surrounding area, ensuring that you are comfortable throughout the procedure.

Accessing the Tooth: The dentist creates a small opening in the crown (top) of the tooth to access the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels). This is where infection or decay is usually found.

Removing the Infected Pulp: The infected or damaged pulp is carefully removed using specialized instruments. This part of the procedure clears the area of infection and prevents it from spreading further into the tooth or surrounding tissues. The dentist may dress with an anti-biotic paste, temporary seal the tooth and ask you to return for stage two at another visit. 

Cleaning and Shaping the Root Canals: Once the pulp is removed, the dentist thoroughly cleans the root canals (the spaces inside the tooth’s roots) to remove any remaining bacteria, debris, or infection. The canals are also shaped to prepare for filling. The dentist may irrigate the area with an antimicrobial solution to further disinfect it. 

Filling the Root Canals: After cleaning, the root canals are filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This material seals the canals to prevent further infection and help restore the tooth’s structure. The opening in the crown of the tooth is temporarily sealed to protect the treated area.

Permanent Restoration: After the root canal treatment, the tooth often needs a permanent restoration such as a dental crown to restore its strength and functionality. This is especially important for molars or teeth that undergo significant pressure during chewing. This would be completed after the tooth has healed. 

Post-Treatment Care

You may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days after the procedure, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

It’s essential to avoid chewing hard foods or placing pressure on the treated tooth until the permanent restoration (like a crown) is in place.

Success and Longevity

Root canal treatments are highly successful, with success rates around 95%. With proper care, the tooth can last for many years, potentially even a lifetime. Regular dental check-ups are important to monitor the health of the treated tooth and ensure it remains infection-free.

A root canal treatment is a very effective way to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted due to infection or damage. It helps preserve the natural tooth, maintaining function and appearance while preventing further complications.