A root canal procedure is quite routine, but you can’t just walk into the clinic of an orthodontist in Columbus, Ohio and say you want to have one. You have to undergo specific tests first, and your dentist may have to refer you to another professional for the procedure. A root canal is a tooth saver, and if you care for it properly, you’d be using the tooth for the rest of your life.
When a root canal is the best option
If serious problems are ailing your teeth, an infection could arise and affect the surrounding gums and bone. The formation and spread of abscess could result in tooth extraction. As much as possible, dentists would want to save your natural teeth. A root canal is recommended when keeping the affected tooth is still plausible.
A root canal specialist will recommend the treatment if your tooth is suffering from deep decay (cavities). If the inflammation of the pulp is irreversible, it must be removed. Necrotic tissue will only cause more problems. The procedure is indicated if there is trauma to the tooth, such as a fracture and if the crown or bridge you have been using for a while is not working optimally.
Treatment for an ailing tooth
After diagnosing the problem and assessing the condition of your tooth, your dentist will explain to you what is involved in root canal treatment. A pulp that is dying or dead, which means it has no viable nerve supply or blood supply, would not do you any good. Hence, it must be evacuated from the tooth under the soothing influence of a local anesthetic.
Routine, safe, and effective
Have no fear; a trained dentist performs root canals routinely. During the procedure, the rest of your mouth will be protected and the tooth to be treated isolated from the rest with a rubber dam. A dental will create a hole in the tooth—an access point for the dental to reach the tooth’s interior where the pulp is located. As soon as all the pulp tissue is out of the way, the dentist will eliminate the infective agents with an anti-microbial solution. The dentist will take care to cleanse the pulp chamber before filling it up with a sealer.
A temporary filler will protect the tooth so that the dentist can check on the bite or occlusion—that is, to ensure proper alignment of the teeth when you close your mouth. A dental crown may have to be fitted if the tooth treated is a posterior molar. The crown provides additional protection to the tooth when you use if for chewing on your favorite treats.
Pain
Pain after root canal treatment may arise from swollen gums and sensitive nerve endings. If the dental instrument has caused damage to the surrounding tissue, you’d be feeling the effects afterwards, especially since the area is quite sensitive. The discomfort and sensitivity should go away soon enough if there are no complications from the procedure.
A qualified dentist can remove the ailing pulp of your damaged tooth without extracting it. Now, you should be ready for the procedure!
