Why Do I need a Root Canal?

Root Canal

Some teeth filling procedures require a root canal. The treatment is designed to eliminate bacteria from the infected area. During this procedure, the dentist removes the inflamed pulp and carefully cleans and disinfects then fills the area. Some of the symptoms that you may need this procedure procedures are:

Severe toothache pain when chewing.
Prolonged pain to hot or cold temperatures.
Darkening of the tooth.
Tenderness in gum area surrounding the tooth.

Performing root canal treatment is not only crucial for the pain removal, but also for preventing the spread of infection.

Once the source of infection-pulp is removed, the pain relieves and the natural tooth can be saved by taking out the infected pulp, sealing it with a suitable biocompatible material and restoring the tooth.

The consequences of not getting root canal treatment done, when it is required, are quite serious. If the inflamed pulp is left untreated, it will not go away on its own and the infection will spread to the surrounding teeth. A pus buildup inside your pulp, called dental abscess, which can spread to your jaw or nearby teeth.

Steps of Root canal treatment

Local anesthesia is administered using a needle, in the area surrounding the tooth to be treated, which will numb the region so that you don’t experience pain & the procedure goes smoothly.
A rubber dam is placed on the tooth, so it is isolated from saliva, blood & bacteria. This keeps the working area clean & dry.
An access hole is made in the tooth, using a dental drill that has a small attachment which removes some part of the tooth to reach the pulp.
Once inside the pulp your dentist uses small instruments, known as hand files ,to remove the infected tissue.The canals are cleaned and disinfected using an irrigant, Sodium hypochlorite to flush out the debris.
If your dentist deem it necessary, your dentist will place an intracanal medication inside the root canals for reducing bacterial load & pain till the next appointment.
After the canals are shaped, cleaned and dried; the next step is sealing them with a biocompatible, inert material called Gutta Percha.
After the canals have been filled and sealed, the tooth is restored by a dental filling.
The next and the last step is the placement of a crown over the treated tooth for its protection as it has become somewhat weaker.

FAQ

When do I need a root Canal?

When the soft tissue inside the root canal becomes inflamed or infected.

What Causes Infection in the Pulp?

When cavities are not treated early enough, the decay will reach the pulp.

Is Root Canal necessary?

If pulp infection is not treated, it will cause abscess.

How much does a root canal cost?

The cost depends on the complexity of the problem. Most dental insurance policies provide coverage.

This article is intended to explain Root Canals for teeth cavities and root canal treatment options. Please seek professional advice for diagnosis and treatment.

Call Lasting Smile Dentist at 586-207-1091 or contact us. If you are looking for a dentist in Washington township, Michigan, we are located on 57850 Van Dyke Road in Washington Township. Click here for Directions.