Root canals are essential for saving millions of teeth annually. This endodontic treatment targets the inner part of the tooth, known as the pulp, addressing inflammation or infection. The inflammation or infection can have a variety of causes: deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth. In addition, an injury to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.

Even though root canals can be scary, our dentists walk you through each step and answer all your questions. Keep reading to learn more about the steps of getting a root canal.

Before Treatment Begins

• X-ray Examination: Your dentist reviews X-rays to assess the tooth’s condition.
• Anesthetic Administration: Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area, ensuring minimal discomfort.
• Placement of Dental Dam: A rubber sheet called a dental dam is placed over the tooth to protect and isolate it during the procedure.

During Root Canal Treatment

• Tooth Preparation: A small opening is created at the top of the tooth to access the pulp.
• Pulp Removal: The damaged pulp and nerve tissues inside the tooth and root are carefully removed.
• Cleaning and Shaping: The inner chamber is cleaned and shaped to accommodate a filling.
• Irrigation and Medication: The area is irrigated, and antimicrobial medication is applied to prevent infection.
• Filling Placement: Biocompatible material, often gutta-percha, is used to fill the tooth’s canals, sealing it to prevent further infection.
• Temporary Filling: A temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth until a permanent restoration can be completed.

After Root Canal Treatment

• Post-Procedure Sensitivity: Some sensitivity or discomfort may occur, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
• Follow-Up Appointment: A follow-up appointment is scheduled to restore the tooth with a permanent filling or crown.

Root canal treatment, although intimidating, is a crucial procedure for preserving dental health. With careful steps during and after the treatment, your tooth can regain its normal function and provide lasting relief. For any inquiries or to schedule an appointment, reach out to one of our three locations. We’re here to address your concerns and ensure a comfortable dental experience.

A root canal is a dental procedure used to save a tooth that has become infected or injured. The procedure can remove damaged tissues in the tooth and prevent future infection, but is it really worth it? We will examine the benefits and drawbacks to help you decide if a root canal is right for you.

Cons of Having a Root Canal

While root canals are pretty common, there are some drawbacks to having this procedure done. One of those drawbacks is that it might weaken the tooth. Dentists have to drill through the tooth in order to get to the pulp, and additional decay might have to be removed. If the tooth is too weak to function, the dentist will add a crown to it, which will strengthen the tooth and allow the patient to use it like a natural tooth.

Another disadvantage of having a root canal is the time it takes in order to get one done. In most cases, a patient will only need to go to the dentist once to get this procedure done. However, two to three appointments are required in complicated cases where the infection or damage is severe. Also, patients might need two to three visits to get root canals on upper first molars. Upper first molars have three to five root canals, and each one must be treated, which takes longer to complete.

Root canals can also cause discomfort to the mouth and jaw, as it will have to remain open the entire procedure.

While there are some cons to having a root canal, there are also some advantages.

Pros of Having a Root Canal

One of the advantages of getting a root canal is that it keeps the natural tooth. Dentists remove the infected pulp tissue, clean out the root canal and replace it with filling material. Because the patient gets to keep the natural tooth, they don’t have to worry about bone loss. The tooth’s root will also continue to stimulate the bone, so the patient can keep their natural smile.

Another benefit of having a root canal is that it stops the tooth pain. Having an inflamed or infected pulp can be pretty painful and can make it difficult to function in everyday life. A root canal cleans out the infected pulp and antibiotics are used to treat the area if needed. Once everything is healed, the toothache will be gone!

If you choose to have a root canal over a tooth extraction, it helps prevent gaps in your mouth. Gaps can lead to alignment issues, which can change your smile and make it difficult to eat. With a root canal, your tooth stays in place so you don’t have to worry about those alignment issues.

Root canals are also more affordable than extracting the tooth and replacing it. You get to keep your real tooth and your real smile.

Like any dental procedure, there are pros and cons. It’s always a good idea to talk with your dentists if you think you may need a root canal. Call us today and we’d be happy to schedule an appointment with you.