Root Canal Treatment: A Tooth Saving Technique
When you have a tooth having nerve damage due to an infection or decay, the best solution is a root canal treatment. By this treatment, you can keep your natural tooth, avoid the need for an artificial tooth, keep the alignment of your teeth, and prevent issues with your jaw. Your tooth does not necessarily need its nerve to maintain proper functioning, so the removal through a root canal treatment will not cause significant damage or loss of functionality.
Root canal treatment is a highly skilled procedure designed to clear an infected tooth. It involves the use of special equipment to clear the root canal of all infection, before filling the tooth and in many cases a crown is added to give it extra strength.
If you have a root canal, it’s important to have it done at a reputable location by a dentist with experience performing the procedure. Also follow after-care instructions very carefully to promote adequate and proper healing. Inform your dentist if something doesn’t feel right or you’re worried that the root canal wasn’t fully successful. A regular follow-up can help detect possible problems and treat them before they get worse.
Procedure involved in Root Canal Treatment:
The procedure of a root canal treatment can be done in one or several visits to your dentist depending on the condition of your infected tooth. First, you will be given a local anesthetic to numb the infected area. Then, a rubber dam may be place surrounding the area so that bacteria are kept away. Then, a hole will be created in the tooth to access the root canal. Once the damaged area can be reached, the pulp (nerve) will be cleared out by your dentist and the canal will be thoroughly cleaned. Dentist uses specially shaped files to clean out the root canals. Then the empty pulp and root canals are thoroughly disinfected. The canal will then be filled and sealed and the opening created to reach the root canal will be covered with a filling. A tooth that has had root canal therapy might be restored with a filling if it is right in the front of the mouth or more likely with a crown if it is at the back of the mouth.
Tips To Follow After Root Canal Treatment:
- It is necessary to take any prescribed antibiotics as directed in order to prevent any further or additional infection.
- If you have a prolonged period of pain, contact your dentist immediately.
- Follow proper hygiene habits and clean the tooth and gums regularly where your root canal occurred. Use a fluoride toothpaste and brush for a full two minutes. Follow up by gently flossing between each tooth to remove any built-up food in the gaps
- Not put too much pressure on the side of your mouth where you had your root canal.
Avoid the food that is hard, chewy, or crunchy just after the treatment.