Understanding Root Canal Treatment: What You Need to Know Dr. Kamini Jain July 18, 2023 Health & Beauty 446 A root canal treatment saves a damaged or infected tooth. It involves removing the damaged pulp from the tooth and filling it with a special material to prevent further infection. This post will discuss about its treatment, when it is needed, its procedure, after-treatment care, and its benefits to understand more about it. Whether you are experiencing tooth pain or simply curious about dental procedures, this post will provide you with the information you need to know about root canal treatment. However, if the tooth is too damaged and cannot be saved with a root canal, there are alternative solutions available. For instance, quality dental implants in chattanooga tn can be a viable option to replace missing teeth and restore your smile and chewing function Root Canal Treatment Root canal treatment removes infected or damaged tooth pulp – the soft tissue in the tooth’s centre, containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. It causes severe pain and sensitivity when it becomes infected or inflamed. This treatment is important to save a severely damaged or infected tooth. Without it, the infection can spread and further damage the tooth, surrounding teeth, and jawbone. The pain associated with the infection can also be debilitating and impact a person’s daily life. When is Root Canal Treatment Needed? Root canal treatment can occur for various reasons, such as tooth decay, injury or trauma, or repeated dental procedures on the same tooth. When the mouth’s bacteria produce acids that eat away at the tooth’s enamel, it creates tiny holes or cavities in the tooth surface. If left untreated, this decay can progress deeper and eventually reach the pulp. Repeated dental procedures like fillings or crowns on the same tooth can also lead to inflammation or infection of the pulp. Indicators that a person may require a the treatment include: Tooth pain: A persistent, throbbing toothache that does not go away with painkillers is a common sign of an infected pulp Sensitivity: Teeth are sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, especially if the sensitivity lingers after the temperature is removed, which can signify pulp inflammation. Discolouration: A discoloured tooth that has turned grey or black may indicate that the pulp is dead or dying. Swelling: Swelling around the affected tooth or in the gums near the tooth can be a sign of infection. Pus: If discharge or pus is coming from the gums or around the affected tooth, it may be a serious infection that requires immediate treatment. The Root Canal Procedure The entire root canal procedure typically takes between 1 and 2 hours. First, the dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth with local anaesthesia. It is typically done with a small injection in the gum tissue surrounding the tooth. Once the area is numb, the dentist will use a drill to create a small hole in the top of the tooth, allowing access to the pulp chamber. Next, the dentist will use specialized tools to remove the infected pulp from the tooth. This process may take some time, as the dentist must thoroughly remove all the damaged or infected tissue. After removing the pulp, the dentist will clean out the tooth’s inside and shape the root canals to be filled. It will then be filled with a rubber-like material known as gutta-percha and seal the tooth with a filling or crown. Post-Treatment Care Tips Proper care of your teeth is important to ensure a quick and healthy recovery. Here are some post-root canal treatment tips to help you manage pain, rest and recover, and take good care of your oral health. Pain management: Root canal treatments can be painful, but there are several ways to manage the pain and discomfort. Over-the-counter painkillers can help alleviate any discomfort. With severe pain, your dentist may prescribe stronger medication. Additionally, avoid chewing on the side where the treatment was performed, as it may cause additional discomfort. Rest and recovery: Following the procedure, taking time to rest and recover is important. Avoid strenuous activities for the next few days and consume hard or crunchy foods. Stick to soft, easily chewable foods like soup, mashed potatoes, and smoothies to give your mouth time to heal. Good Oral Health: Good oral hygiene is crucial following a root canal treatment. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day, and rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash. Remember to visit your dentist for regular check-ups to ensure the long time success of the treatment. Benefits of Root Canal Treatment Pain relief Root canal treatment alleviates tooth pain caused by infection or inflammation in the tooth’s pulp (innermost part). Saves the tooth Without root canal treatment, the infected tooth may need to be extracted. This lets you keep your natural tooth in place and avoid tooth loss. Improves oral health By removing infected tissue, root canal treatment prevents the further spread of infection and decay to other teeth and gums. Restores function After root canal treatment, a dental crown or filling is placed on the tooth to restore its function and appearance. Cost-effective Root canal treatment is often less expensive than a tooth extraction, followed by tooth replacement options such as dental implants or bridges. Low risk Root canal treatment is a safe and routine procedure with a high success rate. Conclusion Root canal treatment relatively takes 1-2 hours. It is important to seek treatment if you experience persistent tooth pain, sensitivity, discolouration, swelling, or pus. Proper care techniques such as managing pain, resting and recovering, and maintaining good oral hygiene are essential. Its include pain relief, saving the tooth from extraction, improved oral health, restoring function and appearance, cost-effectiveness, and low risk. If you suspect the need for the treatment, consult with your dentist to receive the appropriate care and ensure the long-term success of the treatment. SHARE THIS POST