Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure that is necessary when the nerve or pulp of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed. The pulp is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels.
The most common reason for needing a root canal is because of a deep cavity that has reached the pulp, allowing bacteria to enter and cause an infection. Other reasons can include tooth trauma, a cracked tooth, or gum disease.
If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding bone and tissue and lead to an abscess, which can cause significant pain and swelling. Additionally, the infection can lead to the loss of the tooth.
The process for root canal treatment typically involves the following steps:
Local anesthesia: To ensure that you are comfortable throughout the procedure, your dentist will first administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth.
Access to the pulp (nerve of the tooth): Your dentist will then create a small access hole in the top of the tooth to reach the pulp.
Removal of the pulp: The infected or inflamed pulp is removed from the tooth, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected. We use small files, sometimes powered by a modern, electronic motor, to perform this procedure.
Filling and sealing the tooth: Once the pulp has been removed, the tooth is filled with a material called gutta-percha and sealed with a temporary filling.
Final restoration: In most cases, a dental crown or other restoration is placed over the treated tooth to provide additional protection and restore its function.
Overall, root canal treatment is necessary to save a damaged or infected tooth and prevent the need for extraction. It is a common and effective dental procedure that can help alleviate pain and restore the health and function of the tooth. If you suspect that you may need a root canal, it is important to consult with your dentist as soon as possible to prevent the infection from spreading and causing further damage.
At Northbridge Dentists, all of our dentists are trained in root canal treatment. Dr Jenny Chang is particularly passionate about this treatment and has undertaken significant extra training to get the best results possible.