The root canal is a part of a tooth. Root canal treatment is the procedure to treat a damaged or infected tooth instead of removing it. The process involves removing the tooth’s pulp, which comprises blood vessels, nerves, and connecting tissues that help the tooth grow. Millions of teeth are saved by root canals in a year. If your teeth are damaged badly, you may need a root canal. For that, go to the best dentist in Rutherford, NJ. Delaying the process will only add to your pain.
Steps in the treatment
Numbing: Your dentist will apply a numbing agent to the gums near the affected tooth. After it takes effect, he will inject local anesthesia into your gums. There may be a feeling of pinching or burning during the procedure, but it will pass. While you remain awake, the anesthetic will prevent you from feeling pain.
Cleaning the root canal: An endodontist or general dentist will make a small opening in the top of your tooth while you are numb. After the infected or damaged pulp is visible, the specialist will carefully remove it with special tools known as files. The dentist will carefully clean your tooth’s pathways (canals).
Antibiotics: Following the pulp removal, the dentist will coat the area with an antibiotic to ensure that the infection has been eradicated and prevent reinfection. After cleaning and disinfecting the canal, the dentist uses a sealant paste and rubber-like material called gutta-percha to fill and seal the tooth. They may also prescribe oral antibiotics.
Filling the root canal: The tooth is dead following root canal therapy because the nerve tissue has been removed, and the infection has been eliminated. The patient will not feel any pain from that tooth. To complete the procedure, the dentist will fill the opening in the top of the tooth with a soft, temporary material. This sealant protects the canals from damage by saliva.
Who needs the treatment?
Patients commonly need root canals when they experience tooth sensitivity, whether it is a result of a cracked tooth or genetics, a deep cavity, or a previous filling. These are a few symptoms when you need a root canal:
- Cracked or chipped tooth
- Pimples on gums around the tooth
- Tender or swollen gums
- Pain when chewing or biting
- Darkening or deep decay on the tooth
Is it painful?
Due to the anesthesia given to patients, root canals aren’t as painful as other dental procedures, such as fillings or getting wisdom teeth removed. However, a root canal is usually a bit sore or numb after, and it may cause mild discomfort for a few days.