The root canal of a tooth contains the pulp, blood vessels, and nerve tissues. The pulp is responsible for nourishing the tooth, but if it is infected, the patient may face severe symptoms, including excruciating toothaches. Root canal treatment is a treatment for the root canals. The procedure is required when severe decay has infected the inside of a tooth. One may need root canal treatment even when a tooth is impacted or injured. When you visit a dentist in riverside ca, for root canal treatment, you may have a bunch of questions on your mind. Below are a few things you need to know.
Steps in root canal treatment
- As the first step, the dentist will use a local anesthetic agent to numb the targeted tooth and surrounding gums.
- Following this, an access opening will be created on the top of the infected tooth to access the pulp and root canals.
- Using particular files, which almost look like needles, the dentist will remove the pulp and everything else inside, including blood vessels, nerve tissues, and decay.
- The hollow area is then cleaned with disinfecting solutions, and a dental material is used to fill the canals.
- If a second appointment is required, the dentist may use a temporary filling, or else the tooth will be sealed permanently.
- Because the treated tooth is now more fragile after root canal treatment, your dentist may recommend getting a crown on the top.
In general, the whole process takes anywhere between two to three appointments, but in some cases, more sessions could be necessary.
Understanding the experience
Most patients agree that root canal treatment is not painful, although there may be uneasiness and discomfort. The dentist is essentially getting rid of everything inside the infected tooth, and therefore, the process may feel overwhelming, especially because of the dental files used during the procedure. Since the local numbing agent is used, there is no reason why one should feel pain as the dentist proceeds with the root canal treatment. Also, you may have to take antibiotics, which will aid the healing process.
Final word
While root canal treatment is among the most common endodontic procedures, people often have unfounded apprehensions about considering the option. Talk to your dentist, who can help you understand how you can save an infected tooth from extraction by choosing root canal treatment. Your dentist will also explain if you are an ideal candidate for the procedure and whether you should expect any complications.