What Is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure that involves removing infected or damaged tissue from inside a tooth. This tissue, known as the pulp, contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue that helps nourish the tooth. When the pulp becomes infected or damaged, it can cause pain, sensitivity, and even tooth loss if left untreated.
Root canal treatment is typically recommended when the pulp inside a tooth is infected or damaged. This can occur due to deep decay, trauma to the tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding teeth and gums, causing further damage and potential tooth loss.
What Happens During Root Canal Treatment?
During a root canal treatment, your dentist or endodontist will numb the area around the affected tooth to ensure you are comfortable during the procedure. They will then create a small hole in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals.
The infected or damaged pulp will then be carefully removed using small, specialized instruments. The canals will be thoroughly cleaned and shaped to allow for the placement of a filling material. This filling material will seal the canals and prevent further infection.
In some cases, a dental crown may be placed over the tooth to provide additional strength and protection. The crown is designed to match the colour and shape of your natural teeth, ensuring that your smile looks natural and healthy.
Is Root Canal Treatment Painful?
Contrary to popular belief, root canal treatment is not a painful procedure. The pain that is often associated with a root canal is usually caused by the infection that necessitated the treatment, rather than the procedure itself.
In fact, root canal treatment is designed to alleviate pain and discomfort caused by the infection or damage to the pulp. Most patients report feeling little to no discomfort during the procedure, and any minor discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Benefits Of Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment offers several benefits, including:
- Relief from pain and discomfort
- Preservation of the natural tooth
- Prevention of further infection and damage
- Aesthetic improvement of the tooth's appearance
- Restoration of normal chewing and biting functions
By choosing root canal treatment over tooth extraction, you can maintain the natural structure of your teeth and avoid the need for a dental implant or other tooth replacement options.
Conclusion
Root canal treatment is a safe and effective procedure for removing infected or damaged tissue from inside a tooth. It is not a painful procedure, and can provide relief from pain and discomfort caused by the infection. By choosing root canal treatment, you can preserve the natural structure of your teeth and avoid the need for more invasive tooth replacement options. If you are experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, contact your dentist or reach out to us to schedule an appointment and learn more about root canal treatment.