If you have a dental problem, your dentist may recommend having a root canal to save your tooth. A root canal is a procedure in which the damaged interior tissue of the tooth is removed so that the tooth can be preserved in its position in the gum. Your dentist will refer you to an endodontist, a dental professional that specializes in treating the pulp inside of the tooth.
Anatomy of a Tooth
A tooth is composed of a hard enamel exterior, a hard interior beneath this called the “dentin” and finally an interior of soft tissue called the “pulp.” This pulp runs from the crown of the tooth to the root where it connects to gum tissue. It is this area of the tooth that is removed during a root canal treatment. Although the pulp is important during a tooth’s development, once the tooth is mature the pulp is not needed. Without it, the tooth is still nourished by the bloodstream through surrounding tissues.
Why Have A Root Canal?
A root canal treatment may be necessary when the tooth’s pulp and nerves have become infected or inflamed. This condition may occur when the tooth has a very deep decay, when the tooth has become cracked or chipped, when repeated procedures have been done on a tooth or when there has been trauma to the face.
When Is A Root Canal Treatment Needed?
Root canals may be indicated when:
· The patient has severe pain when chewing or when pressure is applied to the area.
· The tooth may experience extreme sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
· Gums around the affected tooth may be swollen and tender.
· A pimple keeps recurring in the gum area near the tooth.
· The tooth may become discolored.
Why A Dental Specialist?
The word endodontist comes from the Greek words “endo,” meaning “inside,” and “dente,” meaning the tooth. Endodontists receive two additional years of training that focuses on the inner pulp of teeth, and how to treat conditions that affect this tissue. These specialists may treat accidental injuries of the tooth that require repositioning in the tooth socket, as well as other conditions. Endodontics can help to preserve natural teeth so that artificial teeth are not necessary. Although some traditional dentists are trained in root canal procedures, difficult cases are usually referred to an endodontic specialist.
What Happens During A Root Canal Procedure?
Endodontists have refined the root canal process into a fairly quick and efficient process. Generally, a root canal treatment can be done in one or visits. A crown may also be put on the tooth to increase its strength.
· First, the tooth must be examined and x-rayed to detect the damage to the pulp.
· A local anesthetic is administered to prevent pain during the procedure.
· The tooth is cleaned and a rubber dam is placed around the tooth.
· An access hole is drilled into the surface of the tooth, and the interior tissue is removed.
· The tooth interior canal is thoroughly scrubbed and cleaned with sodium hypochlorite. If infection is present, an antibiotic is applied to the interior. You may be required to wait a week to allow the medication to eliminate the infection.
· The tooth interior is then filled with a special material called gutta percha and sealed shut.
· A crown or other restoration may then be needed to make the tooth stronger.
Pain Control
According to Sun Dental and Dentures, the endodontist will provide pain control as needed during the procedure. They say, “if you find that this is not sufficient for you, tell the endodontist so that he or she can provide additional pain relief. With today’s many options for pain control, root canal treatments do not need to be painful.”
Aftercare
After the procedure, the patient can usually return to work the next day. The tooth may be sensitive for several days afterward, but discomfort can usually be controlled with ibuprofen or naproxen. Your endodentist will provide further aftercare instructions, if needed.
