About the treatment
What is a root canal treatment?
Dental pulp is a soft tissue located in the center of the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When infected or damaged, it can cause severe pain, and if left untreated, the infection can spread.
When is root canal treatment necessary?
- Pulp infection: caused by deep decay, crack, or fracture in the tooth that allows bacteria to reach the pulp.
- Severe pulp inflammation: due to trauma or repeated dental interventions on a tooth.
- Dental abscess: accumulation of pus inside the tooth or surrounding tissue due to infection.
Stages of a root canal treatment:
- X-ray: The dentist takes an X-ray to assess the extent of the infection and the shape of the root canals.
- Local anesthesia: To numb the tooth and its surroundings, making the procedure painless.
- Opening the tooth: The dentist pierces the crown of the tooth to access the infected pulp.
- Canal cleaning: using small instruments, the dentist removes the infected pulp and cleans and enlarge the root canals.
- Disinfection: The canals are disinfected to eliminate the remaining bacteria.
- Filling: Cleaned root canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha to seal the space.
- Reconstruction: as the tooth has undergone devitalization and is weakened, it is ideally recommended to restore it with a crown to restore its shape and functionality. In some situations, filling may be considered.
Benefits and Considerations:
- Preservation of the tooth: root canal treatment saves a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted.
- Pain relief: relieves pain caused by infection or inflammation of the pulp.
- Infection prevention: It prevents the infection from spreading to the surrounding teeth and bones.
Post-treatment care:
After root canal treatment, it is normal to feel some sensitivity for a few days. The dentist may recommend pain relievers to relieve pain as needed.
Prevention:
To minimize the risk of needing root canal treatment in the future, adopt good oral health habits:
- Regular brushing: twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Use of dental floss: once a day to remove plaque between teeth.
- Healthy eating: limit your consumption of sugary foods and drinks to prevent cavities.
- Regular dental visits: for professional cleanings and exams.
