What Is A Root Canal?

18 Jul What Is A Root Canal?

Has your dentist recently suggested a root canal treatment (RCT) to restore a dying tooth? It is a fairly common procedure, and more than 15 million root canals are performed every year with a 95% success rate. When performed by a highly skilled dentist and with proper care, many RCTs can last a lifetime. Let us dive a little deeper into what is a root canal and how it helps your dental health.

Root Canal Explained

A root canal is a common dental procedure to save a tooth that is severely infected or damaged. The root canal actually refers to the natural cavity within the center of the tooth, containing the pulp (a soft area) and the tooth’s nerve. A root canal procedure, or endodontic treatment, involves removing the infected or damaged pulp and nerve tissues from inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the inside, and then filling and sealing the space.

When Do You Need One?

A root canal treatment is usually needed when a tooth’s pulp and nerve tissues become infected or damaged. This can happen due to several reasons, including:

• Deep decay
• Large fillings
• A crack or chip in the tooth
• Trauma to the face
• Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth

An infection in the pulp can lead to an abscess (a pus-filled pocket) at the root tip and can also cause swelling, bone loss around the root tip, and drainage problems. Symptoms that might indicate the need for a root canal include:

• Severe toothache
• Swelling and tenderness in the surrounding gums
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold
• Discoloration of the tooth
• Persistent pimples on the gums

It is important to note that sometimes there may be no symptoms, and the need for a root canal may only be diagnosed during a routine dental examination. Therefore, regular check-ups are crucial for maintaining oral health for long.

The Procedure

The root canal procedure is ideally performed by an experienced dentist or an endodontist, a specialist in treating the interior of the teeth. It is usually done under local anesthesia. During the session, your dentist or endodontist will make an opening in the crown of the tooth and use special tools to remove the pulp and nerve tissue. The inside of the tooth will then be cleaned and disinfected, and the root canals will be reshaped and filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Finally, the opening in the crown is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling.

After this procedure, the tooth may feel sensitive for a few days, and over-the-counter pain medications can usually manage any discomfort. Most patients can return to their normal activities the next day. The dentist may sometimes recommend a crown to protect and restore the tooth to its full function.

While root canal treatment is safe and highly effective, it is always better to prevent the need for one in the first place. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily, avoiding sugary foods and drinks, and wearing a mouth guard while playing contact sports can help prevent tooth decay and injury potentially leading to a root canal. Addressing any dental problems as soon as they arise is essential to avoid further complications.

Costing

The cost of a root canal treatment can vary depending on the complexity of the issue and the affected tooth. For instance, treating molars is typically more expensive due to their complexity, with most dental insurance policies offering partial coverage for the same. Overall, endodontic treatments and restoring the natural tooth is usually more cost-effective than extracting the tooth. Extraction necessitates replacing the tooth with an implant or bridge to restore function and prevent neighboring teeth from shifting, which generally costs way more than endodontic treatment and restoration.

Importance of Seeking Professional Care

Dental treatments are no joke, especially an RCT. It is essential to seek professional care from a qualified, experienced, and reputable service provider for tailored solutions. A root canal is a complex procedure that requires specialized skills and equipment. Only a competent dentist or endodontist can diagnose the problem accurately, perform the procedure with minimal discomfort, and provide personalized care and follow-up to ensure the best possible outcome for your situation.

Book an Appointment with Todays Dental for Better Assistance

Your oral health is a crucial part of your overall well-being. Be sure to seek help before you are in unbearable pain. Regular check-ups and prompt attention to any dental issues can help prevent the need for a root canal and other complex procedures.

If you notice any signs of discomfort and infection, do not ignore them. Visit the specialists at Todays Dental for a comprehensive evaluation. Timely and appropriate care can save your teeth and prevent further complications. Call 815-609-1110 today, and your smile will thank you for being proactive in maintaining your dental health.