You had a severe toothache, and your dentist has recommended going for root canal therapy. Like most patients, you are probably anxious and scared of the procedure. Root canal treatment, or RCT, is a standard endodontic dentistry procedure that helps save an infected tooth from extraction. Before you see your dentist in Northeast Philadelphia, here is a guide for your help.
The need for root canal therapy
If bacteria get access to the inner structure of a tooth, called the pulp that contains nerves, blood vessels, and soft tissues, there could be a possible infection. The typical reasons include poor dental hygiene, previous fillings, and wearing down of the enamel. Symptoms may include severe toothaches, sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages, and gum inflammation. Root canal therapy treats the infection and prevents the need to have the infected tooth removed.
A look at the procedure
Your dentist will do an oral exam and take X-rays of the infected tooth to understand whether there is a need for root canal therapy. They will also explain the extent of the infection and determine the line of treatment. There are a few essential steps in RCT –
- Using anesthesia: Your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the infected tooth and surrounding gums. That will ensure you don’t feel any pain.
- Creating an access opening: Using special tools, the dentist will then make an access opening to reach the inside of the tooth.
- Cleaning the infected tooth: Dental files are usually used to remove the infected nerves, blood vessels, and bacteria from inside of the tooth.
- Cleansing the tooth: Once the infection is out, they will use cleansing agents to clean the tooth thoroughly from the inside. They will sterilize the root canals to avoid possible complications.
- Filling the tooth: Your dentist will seal the tooth with special materials to avoid a new infection.
A crown is usually necessary to restore function and strength because the tooth is no longer strong enough after root canal therapy. A dental crown will ensure the entire tooth is encased so that you can chew and eat normally. Crowns are made of materials like porcelain and ceramic and can last for as long as 15 years.
If you have any questions about root canal therapy, talk to your dentist in detail. They will explain exactly what you can expect from the procedure. RCT can be completed in one to four sessions, depending on the extent of the infection.
